We couldn’t provide the full gamut of services to the profession without the commitment of dedicated members at all levels. The Institute is proud to have a strong volunteer base and the Chartered Accountants Program in particular, prides itself in being ‘by the profession, for the profession.’  
 
There are so many people involved in ‘creating’ a Chartered Accountant. Those that are at the coal face such as mentors, facilitators and markers all help the next generation of Chartered Accountants and there are also those that have a role in shaping their education. 
 
This month Professor Stewart Leech from the University of Melbourne and Neil Wilson, Senior Tax Partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers are recognised for their outstanding contribution to the Chartered Accountants Program. Leech was presented with the Meritorious Service Award while Wilson has been advanced to Fellow status at the Institute. 
 
Without the contribution of members like Leech and Wilson, the Institute would not have the leading post graduate professional accounting program in Australia, accredited as a graduate diploma in Australia and respected and recognised by peer bodies around the world. 
 
Academic rigour 
As the chair of the Education Board, Stewart Leech has provided educational leadership to the Institute at a time of change to ensure the ongoing academic rigour of the Chartered Accountants Program. His involvement with Institute committees both nationally and in Victoria, stretches 20 years.  
 
Business relevance 
Neil Wilson was an inaugural member of the Training Working Party in 2004, playing a major role in designing the changes which saw the Chartered Accountants Program return to the core accounting disciplines and offer greater flexibility for candidates and employers. Wilson then took the role as inaugural Chairman of the Industry Advisory Group, to ensure the curriculum remains at the cutting edge to meet the needs of business. 
 
Getting involved at the Institute 
Being involved with the Chartered Accountants Program is a great way to give back to the profession as well as be recognised for your contribution. It can help you build valuable strategic networks and refresh your knowledge. If you are interested in finding out more about getting involved at the Institute, contact the Chartered Accountants Program Development & Operations Manager. 
 
Relevant links: 

• The Institute: Chartered Accountants Program
• The Institute: Get involved at the Institute
• The Institute: Exam marking