CPA January 2026
Newsletter from the Iowa Society of CPAs, your primary source for profession-related information
Message from the CEO Carrie Steffen s we begin a new year, I want to start with something simple but important: thank you. While I’ve had the privilege of serving as CEO since May, this is my first chance to write to you at the start of a new year — and it feels a bit like the “official” welcome moment. I almost can’t believe that 2025 is in the rearview mirror. I suppose that’s proof that time moves quickly when you’re surrounded by great people doing meaningful work. I’m grateful for the work you do every day for your clients, your organizations, and your communities — and for the integrity and professionalism you bring to the CPA profession. I’ll also share something personal: stepping into this role has brought change for me in all the ways change usually does. It has been uncomfortable at times, occasionally scary, and completely invigorating. As I’ve reflected on that, I’ve remembered that those feelings are also hallmarks of growth. In facing change in your firm, your organization, or your own career right now, you may feel that same mix of uncertainty, worry and energy. I hope you’ll see it as a signal that you are stretching into something meaningful. The CPA profession is evolving quickly and creating tremendous opportunities for those who are willing to lean in. ISCPA is your community. Whether you’ve been a CPA for decades, are early in your career or are a student, meaningful relationships matter. This year
the ISCPA team is focused on creating even more opportunities for members in any phase of their journey to come together through conferences, town halls, events, networking gatherings, and specialized communities that bring people together around shared interests and challenges. Our goal is simple: to offer you access to the people and ideas to move your career forward. Because learning is at the heart of professional confidence, we continue to be laser focused on trends and issues shaping the future of accounting. Expect timely education and resources on evolving standards, ethics and regulatory developments, the changing tax landscape, and the ways artificial intelligence and automation are transforming workflows and advisory services. These trends are not coming “someday.” They are here now. ISCPA will continue to serve as a reliable source of practical education that helps you not only keep up, but also stand out. Advocacy remains a key pillar of our work — and in 2026, that work is more important than ever. ISCPA will continue to represent Iowa CPAs with a strong voice at the Statehouse and in Washington, D.C. Our advocacy is about profession, not politics. We encourage you to stay engaged and informed. CPAs remain central to a strong and healthy Iowa economy.
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Iowa Society of CPAs ... Advancing the professional success of our members