OUR CHAPTER'S HISTORY

   City of Akron

The Akron-Canton Chapter #139 of the ASWA was founded through the vision and enthusiasm of one woman and the tireless work of two other people.  MARLENE BLACK, who at the time was Director of Finance for the Girl Scouts, had become aware of ASWA and believed that a local chapter would be valuable to women accountants in this area.  Marlene shared her vision with LINDA SUGARMAN, Girl Scout Board Trustee.  Linda performed the time-consuming task of developing the initial chapter bylaws while Marlene began soliciting potential members.

To that end, Marlene enlisted the support of Mel Wolfman from Touche Ross & Co., the independent auditor of the Girl Scouts at that time.  Mel, who had always believed in the need to advance the role of women in accounting, took up Marlene and Linda's cause and personally encouraged a large number of women to join this new group.

Chapter #139 was chartered in May 1983.  Marlene served as the first Chapter President and Linda as a Director on the initial Board.

In 1984, Mel was awarded an honorary membership in ASWA.  Due to the organizing efforts of these individuals, the Akron-Canton chapter prospered and today still actively carries out Marlene and Linda's original vision through its current members.

Although the ASWA originally existed to advance women in accounting and related financial fields, men have been welcome to join with full membership for many years now.  The Akron-Canton chapter hopes to be able to help advance YOUR career as well.  JOIN US and see what the ASWA can do for you!