Insights and Expertise: A Candid Q&A with a Member of the OSCPA Editorial Board

You may have heard about the OSCPA Editorial Board and its relationship to the prestigious Gold and Silver Pen Awards, but what else do you know about the Board?

The OSCPA sat down with Jimmy Williams, CPA/PFS, CFP®, a long-time member of the OSCPA Editorial Board and the 2021 Gold Pen Award winner. One of the purposes of the Editorial Board is to have CPAs help curate content that is relevant to CPAs, so it would only be fitting for the Editorial Board's most active author recruiter to inform you about what the OSCPA Editorial Board is and what it’s like to be a member of the board.

OSCPA: In your own words, how would you describe the Editorial Board?

Williams: The OSCPA Editorial Board is charged with soliciting, editing and publishing outstanding content for the benefit of our members. Our goal is to create and publish a premiere magazine and online service that our members can rely on for accuracy, relatability and use in their business and public practices.

OSCPA: What inspired you to get involved with the OSCPA Editorial Board?

Williams: One of my passions is writing. Ever since I was a young boy, I realized the power of the written word and its ability to communicate effectively with others. When the opportunity arose for me to serve our profession on the OSCPA Editorial Board, I leapt at the chance.

OSCPA: What has your experience been like as a member of the OSCPA Editorial Board?

Williams: I have enjoyed my role as a member of the OSCPA Editorial Board. My experience of receiving and editing wonderfully written articles from some of the most knowledgeable professionals on the planet gives me additional information to hone my skills.

OSCPA: What would you say would be your favorite aspect of being a part of this group?

Williams: I particularly enjoy the collaboration among our members on the Editorial Board. The sharing of ideas, strategies for themed issues and other creative matters to publish the magazine are excellent.

OSCPA: What would you say to someone who is interested in getting involved with the Editorial Board?

Williams: One of the first words from my mouth would be "Just do it!" The ability to coherently author technical subject matter is a skill that will increase your market value to the world. Jump in and contribute in the manner you believe to be most helpful for the publications and you will feel honored to have been a part of the process.

OSCPA: What do you want our membership to know about the Editorial Board?

Williams: We desire for our OSCPA members to participate in the writing of articles as well as their opinions on the subjects we offer in each edition.

OSCPA: Is there anything you would like to share that you wish we had asked about?

Williams: One last item I would share is that our profession continues to grow from the participation of our members. Seek opportunities to submit articles and enhance your technical capabilities. Through our editing process, you do not have to write your article alone. We are honored to work with you to produce the highest quality of publications in the CPA profession!