ABOUT NABA, INC.
The National Association of Black Accountants, Inc. (NABA) is one of the premier professional organizations in the nation. NABA has the unique opportunity of representing the interests of more than 100,000 people of color in furthering their educational, professional, and career aspirations in the related business fields of accounting, consulting, finance and information technology. The motto of NABA, Lifting As We Climb, is exemplified best in our mission, which addresses the professional needs of our members while developing and inspiring future leaders who will shape tomorrow's accounting and finance professions. In addition, NABA's Center for Advancement of Minority Accountants (CAMA) has established a series of career development programs that serve the membership at the national, regional and local levels. CAMA has also been instrumental in encouraging the next generation of young professionals to consider other opportunities in business.
HISTORY
Established in 1969 by nine African American accountants in New York City, NABA has effectively addressed systematic problems and challenges faced by African-American accounting professionals for more than 35 years.
Since the founding of NABA's first chapter in 1970, membership has grown to more than 185 professional and student chapters across the country. NABA's membership includes diverse individuals and careers, such as: entry and mid-level accountants, auditors and financial professionals, senior level managers and executives, firm partners, entrepreneurs, as well as accounting, finance, and business students. Approximately 51% of NABA's members are employed in Corporate America, of whom 40% have advanced degrees and 45% hold professional certifications.
GOALS
NABA is dedicated to uniting accountants and other business professionals, as well as accounting and business students, who are committed to professional and academic excellence. NABA provides effective programs, activities and advocacy, which promotes our goals. They include:
- Promoting and developing the professional skills of its members
- Encouraging and assisting African-American students in entering the accounting profession
- Providing opportunities for members to fulfill their civic responsibilities
- Promoting public confidence in its members and the services they provide
- Encouraging cordial relations among members and cooperative relationships with other professionals
- Representing the interests of current and prospective African-American accounting and business professionals
- Ensuring long-term financial stability and providing adequate resources to implement chapter, regional, and national programs
CENTER FOR ADVANCEMENT OF MINORITY ACCOUNTANTS
NABA developed the Center for Advancement of Minority Accountants (CAMA) to recruit, develop and support talented minorities interested in accounting, finance, and business related fields. CAMA has established important partnerships between NABA chapters, the national corporate community, colleges and universities, and government agencies. Benefits and programs are tailored to meet the respective needs of all NABA members. Program areas of focus include professional development, career information and job placement, continuing education, technical training, publications, national and regional conferences, and community and public service initiatives. CAMA program initiatives include the following:
Accounting Career Awareness Program (ACAP) - ACAP's primary objective is to increase the number of high school students from underrepresented ethnic groups who attend college and major in accounting, finance, and business administration. Through ACAP's efforts, students receive educational experience and practical help needed for college preparation and a professional career in a business profession.