Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Empowering Women in Accounting and Finance
Founded in 1938, the Accounting & Financial Women's Alliance (AFWA) has dedicated over eight decades to empowering women in accounting and finance through mentorship, education, and professional development. Our organization fosters leadership growth, connects professionals across career stages, and provides resources like scholarships, continuing education, and career services. With a focus on integrity and collaboration, we create opportunities for women to excel in their careers while shaping the future of the industry. Our members benefit from a supportive community that values personal and professional growth, offering access to networking events, leadership training, and exclusive partnerships.Through initiatives like our Mentor-Mentee Program and Career Center, we address the unique challenges faced by women in finance, ensuring they have the tools to succeed. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our NASBA-registered CPE programs and partnerships with leading institutions. By combining tradition with innovation, we continue to evolve alongside the industry, maintaining our mission to uplift and unite women in accounting and finance.
Services
Professional Development
Mentorship Programs
Career Center Services
Scholarship Programs
Continuing Education
Details
- Year established: 1938
Highlights and features
- We offer 80+ years of experience supporting women in accounting and finance
- Our Mentor-Mentee Program connects professionals for personalized career guidance
- Access 12 free CPE credits annually and exclusive industry partnerships
- Career Center provides job placement resources and salary negotiation tools
- Scholarships available for all education levels from undergraduate to certifications
Associations and certifications
- NASBA (National Association of State Boards of Accountancy)
What people say
Career advancement support
Valuable mentorship connections
Professional growth resources
Supportive community network
Scholarship opportunities
Services
Professional Development
AFWA offers tailored professional development programs including leadership training, networking events, and skill-building workshops. Members gain access to industry experts, virtual learning platforms, and exclusive conferences that enhance career prospects. Our resources help professionals stay current with industry trends while developing strategic leadership capabilities.
Mentorship Programs
Our structured Mentor-Mentee Program connects experienced professionals with emerging talent for personalized career guidance. The initiative focuses on knowledge transfer, leadership development, and overcoming industry-specific challenges through one-on-one coaching and group mentoring sessions.
Continuing Education
NASBA-registered continuing professional education programs provide 12 free annual credits, webinars, and specialized training. Courses cover technical skills, regulatory compliance, and soft skills development with flexible online and in-person formats to accommodate busy professionals.
Career Center Services
The Career Center offers job board access, resume distribution, and employer connections specifically for women in accounting. Members receive career counseling, salary negotiation resources, and exclusive job postings from top employers seeking finance professionals.
Scholarship Programs
AFWA provides financial support for academic pursuits including undergraduate, graduate, and professional certification programs. The foundation awards scholarships based on merit and need, helping women overcome financial barriers to career advancement in accounting and finance.
People
Stephanie Sommers
President
CPA and Director at GMS Surgent with extensive leadership experience in accounting. Committed to advancing women's careers through mentorship and professional development initiatives.
Chelsea Sowers
President Elect
Audit Manager at The Network Firm specializing in public accounting. Brings expertise in organizational leadership and member engagement strategies to AFWA's executive team.
Dawn Gillis
Vice President
Tax Credit Manager with Strategic Tax Solutions and CPA/CFE credentials. Focuses on developing educational programs and compliance resources for accounting professionals.
Trina Allen
Vice President
Senior Vice President at Robert Half International with expertise in talent development and accounting industry trends. Advocates for women's leadership in corporate finance roles.
Sharrin Fuller
Treasurer
Founder of Glass Wallet Ventures and financial strategist focused on empowering women entrepreneurs. Brings innovative financial solutions to AFWA's strategic planning.
Questions
What professional development resources does AFWA offer?
AFWA provides 12 free annual CPE credits, leadership training, networking events, and access to industry experts through webinars and conferences.
How can I access mentorship opportunities?
Join our Mentor-Mentee Program to connect with experienced professionals for personalized guidance, career planning, and industry insights.
Are there job placement services available?
Our Career Center offers job board access, resume distribution, and exclusive job postings from employers seeking qualified accounting professionals.
What scholarship programs exist for members?
AFWA offers scholarships for undergraduate, graduate, and certification programs including CPA, CFP, and CMA designations to support career advancement.
How do I register for continuing education courses?
Access our NASBA-registered CPE courses through the member portal, including live webinars and on-demand training modules for flexible learning.
Can students join AFWA?
Yes, students pursuing accounting or finance degrees receive discounted membership rates and access to career development resources.
