Dear Members,

I am excited and honored to welcome you to a new year with the CalCPA San Joaquin Chapter! Whether you are a returning member or joining us for the first time, I want to personally welcome you to a community built on connection, growth, and shared purpose. As your incoming President, I am looking forward to leading a community where professional relationships are not just formed—they are strengthened and supported through every event and opportunity we create.

This year, our focus is all about connection. Whether you are attending a networking mixer, joining a CPA Chapter Committee or board, or volunteering within the community, you will find chances to meet people who could become your collaborators, mentors, future colleagues, prospective clients, and even friends. We are designing events that go beyond the basics:

• We are going to kick off the year with a community service initiative to support “Love Modesto” for a day of service, supporting projects that beautify public spaces and assist local organizations.  We aim to establish more opportunities for community involvement, recognizing that strong professional bonds are often built on shared experiences outside of formal settings.

• Lead by our dedicated ABC Committees, we will be hosting our most popular networking event of the year for Attorneys, Bankers and CPAs, where real conversations happen, cultivating into stronger bonds within peers, and current and prospective clients.

• Student event/ workshop that connects Student with Faculty, providing guidance with hands-on collaboration. It is a valuable way to boost student engagement and open doors to academic and career opportunities.

• Join CalCPA as our members compete in the exciting Firm Olympic competition, where teams challenge each other throughout the afternoon in a variety of yard game activities. The kind of bonding that happens during this fun competition (especially if there’s a trophy or bragging rights), can spark long-term friendships and collaborations.

• And even more relaxed meetups! Casual, volunteer lead events can build camaraderie in a low-pressure environment. We believe that adventure naturally leads to flowing conversations, reduces stress and boosts mood. When everyone feels better, the vibe is more positive and connections feel easier. Explore the outdoors with our Emerging P&L Committee at the Lodi Nature Trail Hike this Summer.

Your board is here to help you get involved, feel welcomed, and take steps toward your career goals—with others by your side.

I can’t wait to see the meaningful connections that will form this year. Let’s make this a year of growth, collaboration, and strong professional bonds.

Looking forward to meeting you soon!