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The Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2004. From the
beginning, CPAs have crafted regulation and
education to maintain high professional standards for their clients,
employers, and the public.
Early 1900s
 The original
Minnesota Society of Public Accountants was incorporated on June 23, 1904.
A
handful of members (called fellows) organized efforts to establish
and regulate the profession of public accounting.
After joining with a rival
group in 1906, the organization worked together to promote a bill to regulate
public accounting. The Minnesota Legislature passed it in 1909
(Chapter 439, Laws of 1909). This act set the qualifications
established by a Board of Examiners (now called the State Board of
Accountancy) to issue certificates, and to provide for any violations.
The demand for accounting services increased when banks required
independent audits. As new CPAs joined their professional
organization, they created accounting education programs, initially through
the University of Minnesota. They also developed examinations to obtain
certification.
Minnesota Historical Society photograph
By 1926, two professional groups of Minnesota CPAs merged into one organization calling it
by its current name, the Minnesota Society of Certified Public
Accounts (MNCPA). At this time, the MNCPA also worked with other
professional organizations to increase the technical qualifications
of practitioners.
Over the next 50 years, the MNCPA helped state
commissions and worked with the legislature to draft accounting laws
important to the public trust. The need for CPAs grew as did Society
membership and activities.
Mid 1900s
 In the 1950’s chapters formed in Greater Minnesota. A
professional staff was hired to manage the needs of a
significantly growing membership. Continuing
professional education programs became a priority as accounting standards and
regulations increased. Through their education and expertise, CPAs
positioned themselves as the leading tax practitioners for individuals
and businesses.
The first annual Tax Conference was held in 1954. After 53 years,
it is still recognized as one of the premier conferences of its
kind in the country due to high attendance and nationally known
speakers.
Today
 Currently, the MNCPA represents CPA members across the state in
public accounting, business, academia, and government.
The Society continues to support regulation of the profession
with the State Board of Accountancy. We also work with the
legislature to enact business and accounting laws favorable to the
public. In recent years, Minnesota joined other states in passing the
Uniform Accountancy Act and made significant progress in the
conformity of to Federal Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT).
Communicating with members and promoting the profession has
become increasingly important. Through its membership and
online resources, the MNCPA reaches out to communities with information
promoting financial literacy and career opportunities.
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