CEO Compass - Summer 2026

by Aiysha (AJ) Johnson, MA, IOM | NJCPA CEO and Executive Director | July 21, 2026

Building What's Next, Together

Every time I leave the NJCPA Convention & Expo, I come away with the same feeling: gratitude.

Gratitude for the members who continue to invest in their profession. Gratitude for the volunteers who generously give their time and expertise. Gratitude for the students who remind us that the future of accounting is bright. And gratitude for a community that continues to show up and come together with a shared purpose.

This year’s Convention was a celebration of all of those things — ideas were exchanged, relationships were strengthened and new opportunities were created. I saw experienced leaders embrace new technologies and fresh perspectives. I heard conversations that challenged assumptions and inspired action.

One of the highlights for me was welcoming nearly 100 college students. I watched them connect with professionals who once stood where they are today. Their enthusiasm, curiosity and optimism were contagious. They are not simply the future of our profession. They are already here.<

It’s our responsibility to continue to open doors, share our experiences and encourage them to pursue rewarding careers in accounting. 

Another highlight was welcoming our 2026/27 president, Chris Lovasz, CPA, managing director at Deloitte & Touche LLP, whose passion for this profession and commitment to serving others are already making an impact. Chris is supported by an exceptional Board of Trustees whose leadership, vision and thoughtful guidance continue to position the NJCPA for the future.

And, of course, I enjoyed engaging with all of you who attended. Even if you weren’t able to attend, if you volunteered, mentored a student, advocated for the profession, attended a program, served on a committee or simply remained engaged with the NJCPA throughout the year, you helped strengthen our community. Every contribution matters. Together, we continue to build a profession that is resilient, innovative and prepared for what comes next.

As we look ahead, we are evolving the way we connect with you. The NJCPA Board of Trustees and Content Advisory Board have been working closely with staff to ensure that our commitment to keeping you informed remains unchanged, though the ways we deliver that information continue to evolve.

Beginning in September, the NJCPA Pulse e-newsletter will be upgraded to weekly and will take on an enhanced format that delivers timely news, advocacy updates, professional insights and learning opportunities directly to your inbox. We will also expand our investment in video, giving members more access to expert perspectives, legislative developments and conversations about the issues shaping the profession. 

While you will see fewer printed editions of New Jersey CPA magazine, the same valuable content will be available in two editions (May and November) and complemented with digital articles, blog posts and podcasts to keep you informed and connected throughout the year.

Thank you for your trust, your engagement and your belief in the power of this profession. The success of this year’s Convention reminded me that our greatest strength is always our people.

I cannot wait to see what we accomplish together next. As always, we welcome your comments at feedback@njcpa.org.


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