Meet the New Co-Chairs of the Young Professionals Committee
May 18, 2023
The Young Professionals Committee meets quarterly and features guest speakers and member spotlights to highlight the different backgrounds of and career paths for accounting professionals. It is a place to develop soft skills and connect with peers across the industry to grow your network. The group also helps the Society build and diversify the accounting pipeline and the next generation of CPAs.
We spoke with new co-chairs Sean Keenan, CPA, accounting manager at Wincove Private Holdings and Madison Litwin, CPA, MBA, MST, tax senior manager at KLR, about why they joined the committee, how the Society has impacted their careers and more. To learn more, click here.
How did you get involved in the Young Professionals Committee?
LITWIN: After attending events, seminars and conferences with the Society for years, I had built a small network but wanted to take advan- tage of additional programming and benefits offered by MassCPAs. When I finished graduate school and had the capacity to participate more, I was ready to jump in! The Young Professionals Committee has already been rewarding, and I am looking forward to many more years ahead.
KEENAN: I became a MassCPAs member as part of my role at RSM US LLP. Shortly after, I joined the Young Professionals Committee – and I'm so glad I did!
What has been your biggest career transition?
KEENAN : Transitioning from public accounting to private. So far, it’s been a good change and I’ve been able to apply the knowledge and experience I acquired during my time as an auditor. I’ve only been in my new role a few months, but I’ve already learned so much about private equity funds as an account- ing manager.
LITWIN: The only constant is change. One of the reasons I love public accounting is the inability to get comfortable. It feels as though we are always transitioning, and over the y
What is your favorite part about being a MassCPAs member?
LITWIN: I love the discussions during the Senior Accountant Roundtables. The sessions include rising, current and recent seniors and provide an opportunity to connect in a safe space with individuals discussing a wide array of topics, sharing advice and comparing workplace trends.
KEENAN: Developing personal and professional relationships with smart, caring and passionate individuals through the Society's networking events, such as trivia nights, Bruins, Celtics and Red Sox games and Connect (the annual meeting).
What advice would you give to someone interested in joining a committee?
KEENAN: You will not regret it! It’s a great way to expand your network and gives you the opportunity to learn from your peers and more experienced individuals, while helping guide and teach younger, less experienced individuals and students. I’m lucky to be a member and encourage anyone thinking about it to step outside your comfort zone and start networking!
LITWIN: There are a variety of oppor-tunities and levels of commitment depending on your interests and goals for participation. Committees are a great way to meet individuals from across the state in a variety of industries and roles. There is truly something for everyone.