Upon joining the State Board, I remind members that one of the greatest opportunities afforded them is the chance to interact and meet members from other boards, especially those from surrounding states within the NASBA Central Region. Throughout my long career, I have had the pleasure of witnessing the development of numerous lifelong friendships among members from various states. In addition, attending these national meetings creates strong bonds among the members from Nebraska as they learn and socialize together. In turn, this has created a more positive environment within the State Board, particularly during times when deep discussions must be had and difficult decisions must be made.

Of course, when members volunteer their valuable time to attend national meetings, their commitment to the State Board and its mission increases in correlation. Usually, three to four members attend these meetings along with a State Board staff member, allowing different members to attend if they choose. Members who are unable or choose not to travel are able to receive updates from those who attend and from virtual opportunities provided by NASBA staff.

Apart from the NASBA Annual Meeting, newly elected State Board Education and Examination Chairman Sarah Borchers, DBA, CPA, who is an assistant professor of accounting at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, joined me recently for a visit to NASBA/CPA Exam Services (CPAES) headquarters in Nashville, Tenn. Pat Hartman, director of client services at NASBA, hosted us for an overview of CPAES and its comprehensive array of services to state boards of accountancy.
Through a contractual agreement with the State Board, CPAES is responsible for processing the applications of Nebraska candidates sitting for the Uniform CPA Examination. Because of our visit to CPAES headquarters, Borchers was able to witness the work of CPAES onsite and ask questions. As chairman of the important Education and Examination (EE) Committee, she oversees efforts to ensure CPAES is providing appropriate services to our Nebraska candidates and to the State Board.

The good news is that CPAES has provided excellent service over the years, as indicated through internal and external surveys. However, this does not mean every applicant has a great application experience. The State Board staff is able to provide assistance at times, and the EE Committee remains active and aware of CPAES’ activities, with the Nebraska coordinator attending all CPAES meetings to answer questions and update the EE Committee.

Although some might question the travel costs associated with attending national meetings and getting “ramped up,” I can assure you this is money well spent as our Nebraska members remain engaged and active on the national stage!