Kathy M. Ploch, CPA
2009-2010 President
It is a privilege to preside as the 81st President of the Houston CPA Society. This honor is further enhanced by serving as the fourth woman President during the Society's past 80 years. Even though I am a relatively "new" CPA, having had my license only ten years, to say that I know all of the women Past Presidents - Sheila Root Farquer (1992-1993), Melissa Frazier (2000-2001) and Deborah Touchy (2001-2002) - is really special. The Texas State Board of Public Accountancy's statistics show that there are more women today receiving their certified public accounting certificates than men. It is also refreshing to see the number of women holding top management positions that have traditionally been held by men.
Speaking of history, in choosing the picture for the cover of the Society's membership handbook for this year, I decided to reflect on the past. In looking at the picture, you see many things that have changed. Now running down the middle of Main Street is the Metrorail. The cars look different, but there are still hundreds of them. Downtown has more parking garages, but the cost isn't 25 cents a day anymore. Our country is currently in an economic turmoil although I do not anticipate it will be as serious as the Great Depression. However, this picture should remind us that Houston has had its ups and downs, but has always pressed forward. I feel very certain our city will continue to do so.
