MACPA Foundation

Inspiring the Next Generation: Volunteers Needed for Classroom Visits and Career Programs

A strong profession starts with a strong pipeline of talent. To build that pipeline, we need to help students understand the many opportunities that exist in accounting and finance — and it starts with awareness.

When professionals take time to visit classrooms or speak at local events, they show students that accounting is not just about numbers; it’s about problem-solving, leadership, and making a real impact in business and communities.

This fall, the Maryland Association of CPAs and MACPA Foundation, in collaboration with partners such as the Maryland Business Roundtable for Education (MBRT) and the Maryland Council on Economic Education (MCEE), are making it easy for professionals to get involved. Whether you have 45 minutes or a full morning, there are several ways to help students see what’s possible.

Each volunteer opportunity is a chance to make the profession visible, relatable, and exciting for Maryland’s future workforce. From sharing your story in a classroom to connecting career skills to real-world applications, your experience can help students imagine themselves in these roles.

Here’s how you can get involved this November:


Accounting Opportunities Experience (AOE)

Hosted by the MACPA Foundation in partnership with the AICPA, the Accounting Opportunities Experience (AOE) brings Maryland CPAs and finance professionals into high school classrooms throughout November. Volunteers help students understand what a CPA does, how the profession is evolving, and the many career paths available across industries.

Each classroom visit is conversational and engaging, giving students a real look into the world of accounting from someone who lives it every day.

“This career awareness event aims to demystify the profession and inspire students to consider accounting as a rewarding path.” — AICPA

Complete a short interest form, and MACPA will match you with a school and time.


Maryland Business Roundtable for Education (MBRT)

MBRT connects business professionals with schools for career conversations that bring classroom learning to life. These in-person sessions introduce students to the human side of career choices — what work looks like day to day, how professionals got started, and how their skills continue to grow.

Upcoming Opportunities — Long Reach High School (Howard County): Friday, November 14, 2025

9:00–9:45 AMLong Reach High School (Alessio)In-Person
10:00–10:45 AMLong Reach High School (Alessio)In-Person
12:15–1:00 PMLong Reach High School (Alessio)In-Person
1:00–1:45 PMLong Reach High School (Alessio)In-Person

To learn more and volunteer, contact Carrie Pannone, State Program Sr. Manager, at carrie@mbrt.org or 443-233-6944 to reserve a time.


Maryland Council on Economic Education (MCEE)

MCEE equips educators with tools and resources to teach personal finance and economics — and volunteers play a key role. Accounting and finance professionals can help students understand how financial decision-making and career skills connect to the real world.

To learn more and get involved with MCEE, email Julie Weaver at weaver@towson.edu to join MCEE’s volunteer roster and be matched with opportunities across Maryland.


Ready to make an impact? Volunteer for one or all of these opportunities.

Volunteers receive a short prep guide, talking points, and ongoing support from MACPA and partner staff. The commitment is flexible — and the impact lasts far beyond the classroom.

To sign up:

Together, we can help Maryland students see the possibilities in accounting and finance — and build a profession ready for the future.

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Lauren McDonough