The Alzheimer’s Association Accounting Industry Leadership Council was established in January 2020, immediately before the COVID-19 pandemic was about to unfold worldwide. Regardless of these daunting circumstances, the council moved forward with its mission to bring the accounting profession together as one to end Alzheimer’s and all dementias.
As federal tax credits and incentives practice leader for Prager Metis, I co-founded the council with Rob Lucas, director of corporate initiatives for the Alzheimer’s Association. While serving as chair for the Alzheimer’s Association Manhattan Walk to End Alzheimer’s signature fundraising event, I recommended a strategy for bringing industry sectors together as one to raise significant funds collectively to make a greater impact to support the mission of the Alzheimer’s Association.
The council has enjoyed tremendous success in its inaugural year, securing council members from all the Big Four accounting firms. During 2021, the council more than doubled in size from eight members in 2020 to 18 so far, with the support of Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG, BDO, RSM, Grant Thornton, CliftonLarsonAllen, Baker Tilly, Moss Adams, EisnerAmper, Prager Metis, Weaver, Friedman, BerryDunn, Hawkins Ash CPAs, Kraft CPAs and Mengel Metzger Barr & Co.
As part of the responsibilities of being on the council, members identify participating offices across the country within their respective firms, along with office champions to rally their employee’s office by office to participate in more than 600 Walk to End Alzheimer’s events nationwide that commence in August and continue through November. The much-needed funds raised at these events will support the Alzheimer’s Association mission of accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Together, a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia is possible.
“We created the council to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and to provide firms with information about care and support resources available through the Alzheimer’s Association,” said Donna McCullough, chief field and development officer for the Alzheimer’s Association. “Accountants often see the early warning signs of cognitive decline in their clients, friends and family. It’s critically important that all Americans who are navigating this difficult journey know they are not alone and that the Alzheimer’s Association is here to help. We are so thankful to these great volunteers for supporting our mission. Their participation — through the creation of company teams — in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s will help us advance Alzheimer’s care, support and research.”
Everyone in the accounting profession can support this important cause. If you would like to make a donation in any amount, please visit
If interested in having your accounting firm join the Council, please contact me at
