Key Insights and Innovations from CPAmerica's Annual Retreat in Napa

Highlights from CPAmerica's Leading Partners Retreat and Firm Management Roundtable

CPAmerica recently conducted its highly anticipated Leading Partners Retreat (LPR) and Firm Management Roundtable (FMR) from September 16-19, 2025, at The Meritage Resort & Spa in the picturesque Napa Valley, California. These dual events, attracting nearly 300 attendees, focused on various pressing matters relevant to leaders of independent accounting firms.

The LPR and FMR are among over 17 flagship events hosted by CPAmerica each year, each designed to foster discussion, knowledge, and collaboration among members. Featured this year were notable industry speakers, including generational consultant Kristin Scroggin, who addressed the evolving landscape of talent acquisition and retention amid what she termed the 'epic reshuffle'. Her insights underscored the necessity for firms to adapt their strategies to forge connections with the upcoming generations entering the workforce.

Renowned leadership author Ryan Jenkins also took the stage, offering a thought-provoking discourse on the complexities of generational gaps within the workplace. He explored effective solutions to enhance communication and collaboration among diverse age groups, emphasizing the critical need for adaptive leadership.

Another remarkable aspect of the retreat was an AI workshop led by Juan Carlos Lara from Crowe Global. Participants had the opportunity to learn about the revolutionary impact of artificial intelligence on knowledge management. The session emphasized how AI can aid firms in crafting content that enhances their brand message while ensuring it resonates with clients and partners alike.

A standout event was the 'NextGen Panel', which embraced a multigenerational dialogue among emerging leaders in the accounting field. Featuring panelists such as Brody Engen from Widmer Roel, Dani Opperud from Aldrich, and Kelly Cowhig from Vesta, the discussion was moderated by Charles Hylan of Hylan Advisory. This engaging conversation helped bridge perspectives across generations and addressed strategies to cultivate the next wave of leaders in the accounting arena.

The support from sponsors was also critical to the event's success. CPAmerica extends heartfelt thanks to its Visionary Partners, McGuire Sponsel and alliant, as well as Inspiring Partners including Aiwyn, Becker, and others. Their contributions were vital in facilitating meaningful discussions and networking opportunities throughout the retreat.

Looking ahead, CPAmerica has announced that the 2026 Leading Partners Retreat and Firm Management Roundtable will be hosted from September 29 to October 2 at the Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Atlanta, Georgia, promising another enriching experience for accounting professionals.

About CPAmerica, Inc.:
CPAmerica, Inc. is a prominent accounting association comprised of independent certified public accounting firms. It is anchored by its commitment to continuous improvement, fostering relationships among member firms, and enhancing their prestige both domestically and internationally. CPAmerica is affiliated with Crowe Global, a network of over 230 independent accounting and advisory service firms across more than 140 countries, collectively achieving a revenue of $5.3 billion. To discover more about CPAmerica, visit www.cpamerica.org.

This year’s LPR and FMR not only highlighted the pressing issues facing the accounting industry but also fostered a community spirit that empowers firms to grow through collaboration and innovation.