March 1, 2021
National Society of Black CPAs Hires CEO to Increase Diversity in Accounting
Founded in June 2020, NSBCPA was created to increase the number of Black CPAs and close the resource gap in the Black community. The organization is leading efforts to increase CPAs by providing exam candidates with the resources and coaching needed to be successful.
“My vision is to ensure that through effective programming and mentoring we will be the premier membership society of choice for blacks pursuing certification in public accounting, and excellence in their professional endeavors,” Matthews said in a statement. “I very much look forward to working alongside our members to ensure that they have the tools and resources needed to maximize their potential and rapidly ascend as leaders in their career pursuits.”
Supporting Black CPAs
Blacks are by far the most underrepresented group within the CPA profession. The first Black CPA, John Wesley Cromwell Jr., received his license in 1921. It wasn’t until 1943 that the first Black woman, Mary T. Washington Wylie, received her CPA license. In the early 1900s, limited access to job opportunities and mentors presented a barrier for aspiring CPAs. Now, the profession needs to overcome limited visibility. Providing resources that appeal to students and professionals in this ever-evolving digital landscape will be key.
Matthews is on the mission. He’s ready to transform past obstacles into future opportunities. With a background in partnerships and business development, Matthews has helped many membership-based organizations achieve their goals. He’s working to expand the vision of NSBCPA’s First 100 Black CPA initiative to bring more awareness to the profession. Matthews’ is also developing strategic partnerships that will allow NSBCPA to reach more students. In December 2020, NSBCPA announced a $1 million pledge from Vista Equity Partners Founder, Chairman, and CEO, Robert F. Smith to support Black accountants. Matthews will play a major role in ensuring that the pledge enables more Black students to sit for and pass the four-part CPA exam.
A Reputation of Leadership and Success
Matthews joins NSBCPAs with over three decades of leadership experience. Recently, he served as a Partnership Specialist for the 2020 Decennial Census. He was also an Executive Director for the National Medical Association and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Earlier in his career, Matthews served as the Executive Director of the National Association of Black Accountants. Under his leadership, the organization achieved record profits and remarkable growth.
“Darryl brings more than 30 years of diversified leadership experience and an extensive global network of resources,” said NSBCPA board chair, Shannon Nash, CPA, Esq in a statement.”He has a track record of increasing an organization’s partnership and donor base while raising millions of dollars. We are excited to have Darry lead us in the next phase of our goals.”