The traditional chapter governance structure is ending—but local connection is not. Under the new model, CalCPA will no longer operate with chapter borders, chapter boards, or chapter committees. Instead, community engagement will shift to a statewide, interest-driven framework supported by regions, Community Forums, and Area Connectors. This change is designed to expand how members connect, lead, and participate—both locally and across California.
Community Engagement at CalCPA
CalCPA is modernizing across three pillars: Membership, Knowledge, and Community. Your vote shapes the future of how we connect.
Voting update
As of Tuesday, Feb. 17
1,061
Votes
83.4%
In favor
16.6%
Opposed
Exciting Community Engagement update from CalCPA's Chair and CEO
Learn how CalCPA’s new Community Framework makes it easier to connect, participate, and lead—on your terms. In this brief message, CalCPA leadership shares how a more flexible, regional, and interest-based model is helping members build meaningful relationships and make a greater impact across California.
Proposed changes
A side-by-side comparison of the current chapter-based model versus the new regional and hyper-local engagement framework.
Why this matters
The proposed framework is designed to expand community engagement while modernizing governance—ensuring CalCPA remains your premier professional resource.
Future-proofing CalCPA
Aligning with member preferences and trends in association engagement to remain relevant and valuable.
Interest-driven connections
Creating more meaningful engagement opportunities based on your professional interests rather than fixed geography.
Technology-enabled engagement
New engagement app launching in May 2026 to help you connect locally and by interest with ease.
Preserving what you love
Signature events, scholarships, and sponsorships continue—now easier to scale and sustain statewide.
"Community is reimagined—borderless, interest-driven engagement supported by members in forums and advisory councils."
— CalCPA Modernization Vision
Process timeline
See where we are in the modernization journey and what's coming next.
Discussions began
Board of Directors, Trustees, and chapter leaders began modernization conversations.
Council participation
Council members actively participated and informed the proposed changes.
Bylaws distributed
Full redline bylaws reflecting proposed changes sent to voting members.
Member meeting
Live meeting (in-person + virtual) for engagement, discussion, and questions.
Voting period
30-day electronic voting window opens immediately after the meeting.
How voting works
Your voice matters. Here's everything you need to know about participating in this important decision.
30-day window
Voting is open from Feb. 3 at 3 p.m. to March 4 at 3 p.m., the required 30-day window per CalCPA Bylaws.
50 member quorum
Minimum 50 voting members required; approval by simple majority.
Electronic voting
All CalCPA voting members will receive a custom email with voting instructions and a unique voting URL.
What you're voting on
- Expand community & engagement — Moving from chapter-based borders to an interest-driven regional model
- Increase volunteer pathways — More flexible ways to contribute, lead, and shape strategy
- Modernize governance — Simplifying structure so leaders focus on insight, not administration
- Celebrate local flavor — Preserving signature events while making them easier to scale
Frequently asked questions
Get answers to common questions about the proposed changes and what they mean for you.
Will chapters go away completely?
Will events disappear in my area?
No. Events are not going away—and many will expand. Signature events such as ABC Nights, Student Nights, golf tournaments, and community service events will continue, with local flavor preserved. What changes is how they are planned and supported: CalCPA staff will handle logistics and consistency, while members and volunteers focus on outreach, hosting, and creating welcoming local experiences. This model is intended to make events easier to sustain and more consistent statewide, not eliminate them.
How does volunteering change?
Volunteering becomes more flexible, accessible, and interest-based. Instead of a small number of chapter board roles, members can engage through Community Forums, advisory councils, Area Connector roles, or short-term, event-based opportunities. This allows members to contribute in ways that fit their career stage, interests, and availability—from one-time involvement to leadership pathways that shape strategy statewide.
What stays the same?
Many of the things members value most will continue, including:
- Local events and signature programs
- Scholarships and fundraising traditions, with proceeds still supporting students tied to legacy chapter geographies
- Sponsorship opportunities
- In-person connection, supported by regional and hyper-local engagement
The difference is that these experiences will be supported by clearer processes, better technology, and statewide coordination to make them more sustainable long-term.
Why is this change happening now?
Member expectations, participation patterns, and the profession itself have changed. Engagement and volunteer pipelines have declined under the traditional chapter model, and incremental updates are no longer enough. This modernization is about future-proofing CalCPA—reducing duplication, expanding access to leadership, leveraging technology, and creating more personalized, flexible ways for members to connect, learn, and lead.
What if I have more questions?
CalCPA will continue to share updates, timelines, and engagement opportunities as the transition unfolds. Members are encouraged to participate in listening sessions, connect with regional leaders or Area Connectors, and explore the new Community Forums as they launch. Feedback and questions are an important part of shaping the future of CalCPA.
Engagement opportunities
Discover how you can connect, learn, and grow within the CalCPA community under the proposed engagement framework.
Meet-ups
Casual events created by and for members. Use the new engagement app (launching early 2026) to create and find events near you.
Find eventsOnline Communities
Join LinkedIn communities tailored for accounting professionals—share thoughts, ask questions, and exchange ideas.
Browse communitiesSignature events
High-visibility statewide and regional events like ABC Mixers, Golf Tournaments, and Student Nights that create networking value.
Find eventsLeadership & volunteering pathways
It's CalCPA your way. Whatever your passion, interest, or available time, there's a volunteer opportunity for you.
Contribute & Connect
One-off opportunities for first-time volunteers or those with limited time looking to expand their network.
Lead & Facilitate
For experienced members with more time to lead and champion projects and people.
Shape & Strategize
Long-term commitment for visionary advisors who want to shape CalCPA's future direction.
Resources & documents
Access all the materials you need to make an informed decision.
Community Engagement Videos
Learn more about how you can get involved with CalCPA's community engagement initiatives.
Community Engagement Overview
Chapter Leader to Statewide Opportunities
What Happens to My Role
Additional resources
Attend the Feb. 3 member meeting
Join us in person or virtually for engagement, discussion, and live Q&A about the proposed changes.
Register nowAsk us anything
Have questions about the vote, the proposed changes, or what they mean for you? We're here to help.
Email CalCPAGovernance@calcpa.org