New York State Society of CPAs Announces New CEO

The New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA) has selected Calvin Harris Jr., CPA, to serve as the organization’s next chief executive officer.

Harris has over 30 years of executive-level experience in working with complex organizations. During his career, he has served as a Chief Financial Officer, auditor, forensic accountant, consultant and entrepreneur.

A graduate of Morehouse College in Atlanta, Ga., Harris is the former Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the historic National Urban League (NUL), based in New York City. Prior to the NUL, Harris served as the Chief Financial Officer of Baltimore City Community College, along with leadership roles at the United Nations Foundation, NeighborWorks America, Legal Services Corporation and Aeras Global TB Vaccine Foundation. His career began as an auditor at Arthur Andersen LLP.

Harris was the 24th Chairman of the Board and National President of the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA). With a late mother who was a high school bookkeeping teacher, he knew from an early age that he wanted to be a CPA. He has devoted much of his career to promoting, enhancing and strengthening the accounting profession.

“It is an honor to lead the New York State Society, especially in its historic 125th anniversary year. The Society was the first state CPA organization, and remains one of the largest in the country. It’s a key voice in the great state of New York, the accounting profession and community as a whole. As a CPA myself, I’m excited to be a part of such a transformative time. With great thanks to Joanne Barry for her service, I look forward to continuing the important work of the Society, supporting our members with integrity and excellence.” said Harris.

NYSSCPA President Rumbi Bwerinofa-Petrozzello informed staff members and other NYSSCPA stakeholders earlier in the week, that Harris would begin his tenure on June 1, 2022. During her announcement, she stated, “Calvin has extensive nonprofit experience and is a passionate advocate for CPAs. We are in a time of exponential change, not only in the world but also within the CPA profession. Calvin comes to the NYSSCPA with a proven record of success in leading transformational change. We know that he will be vital in ensuring that the Society continues to be a leader in our profession.”

Harris is a native of Maryland, but currently resides in New York City.