Michael Barton, CPA – 2023 “40 Under 40” Honoree

Recent Career Highlights
In the past year, I’m proud to say that I successfully concluded seven years serving the great state of Indiana as a member of the Board of Accountancy, four of which as Chairman of the Board. During my last year as Chairman we successfully navigated changes to the CPA exam, dealt with the lingering effects of COVID-19 impact on licensees and CPA candidates. Lastly, I’m proud of our board for our role in promulgating the new rule that that allows CPA candidates in Indiana to sit for the CPA exam with 120 credit hours.

What are you doing to make a difference in the profession, your community, the world?
I currently serve as Treasurer for the Dropping Dimes Foundation (DDF). We at DDF focus on the well-being of former players of the American Basketball Association (ABA) and their families, who are experiencing financial or medical difficulties and have encountered significant hardship or sickness. It’s because of the ABA and successes of the Indiana Pacers during that era that ultimately drove the growth of our city and helped shape what Indianapolis looks like today. This is why I’m passionate about this cause!

Current Professional Reading / Listening
Well of course I read all of the CPA Practice Advisor publications! Outside of that, I start every workday off by reading through Accounting Today’s daily email blast. This is a great way for me to stay up to date on public accounting trends and issues. Another thing I’ve started doing is listening to Blake Oliver’s (former 40 under 40 award winner) Earmark CPE app. Blake’s team does a great job keeping audiences engaged and has some really interesting guests join the podcast.

See all of the 2023 “40 Under 40” and “20 Under 40” honorees.