Public Impact Award

(formerly known as the Public Service Award)

This award celebrates CPAs who go beyond the numbers to create real change in their communities. It recognizes individuals who lead with purpose, champion meaningful causes, and inspire others to give back. We're spotlighting professionals who step up, serve, and make a lasting difference—whether through charitable work, public service, or community leadership. By nominating someone, you're not just acknowledging their contributions—you’re amplifying their impact and inspiring others to follow their lead.

Nominate for Public Impact Award

Distinguished Service Award

This award honors CPAs who have made extraordinary contributions to the profession, CalCPA, and/or their community. It can be granted for a lifetime of service or a singular act of significant impact. This recognition celebrates professionals whose dedication and leadership inspire others to make a difference.

Nominate for Distinguished Service Award

Outstanding Accounting Educator Award

The Outstanding Accounting Educator Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence in teaching, mentoring, and research in the field of accounting. Nominees may be recognized for their:

• Excellence in teaching and mentoring, as evidenced by awards or citations.

• Educational innovation, such as developing curriculum, case studies, or new programs.

• Published work in academic journals or textbooks.

• Significant involvement in professional and academic societies.

This award honors those who have shaped future generations of CPAs through sustained dedication to education.

Nominate for Outstanding Accounting Educator Award

Firms that are making waves in their communities, these awards shine a spotlight on those shaping the future of the profession.

Nomination Application

Small Firm Excellence (1–20 employees)

Recognizes small firms that deliver exceptional client service while upholding strong professional standards. Demonstrates sustained growth or stability over the past two to three years and leverages technology, specialization, or niche expertise to compete effectively in the marketplace.

Mid-Size Firm Excellence (21–100 employees)

Honors firms with a clear market position in California and a strategic approach to growth. Successfully balances scalability with personalized client service and makes intentional investments in talent development and leadership.

Large Firm Excellence (100+ employees)

Celebrates firms that achieve operational excellence across multiple offices or service lines. Demonstrates strong governance, innovation, and risk management while delivering measurable impact for clients, employees, and the profession.

Community Impact Award
Recognizes organizations that demonstrate a strong commitment to community service, pro bono work, and nonprofit engagement. Honorees align community initiatives with organizational values and long-term strategy to achieve measurable, lasting impact.

Cultural Leadership
Honors organizations that foster an inclusive, positive, and engaging workplace culture. This award highlights leadership in advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and employee engagement while consistently reinforcing organizational values.

Most Innovative Firm
Celebrates firms that lead with innovation in technology, services, or processes. Recipients use forward-thinking solutions to improve client outcomes, enhance efficiency, and promote a culture of creativity and continuous improvement.

Next Gen Firm Award
Recognizes firms that proactively prepare for the future of the accounting profession. Honorees develop and empower emerging leaders and demonstrate readiness for sustained, long-term success.