Report Examines Disparity in Senior Positions for Women in Accounting and Finance

(McLean, VA, February 1, 2011) – The American Society of Women Accountants (ASWA) issued its first ever Special Report, Missing the Top Rung on the Career Ladder. ASWA examines opportunities and barriers to success unique to women in the accounting and finance fields.

"I am very excited that ASWA can share the extensive knowledge and experience of our membership through this special report,” commented Vivian Moller, ASWA 2010-2011 National President. "It's an extension of ASWA's mission to discuss and analyze what is preventing women from filling the top positions in the accounting and finance field.”

Only 17.4% of all partners in public accounting firms are women, although women are 43% of all new hires. Missing the Top Rung on the Career Ladder explores education and career opportunities for women at each professional level. Factors such as flexibility in the workplace, taking time off from a career, and entrepreneurship are addressed.

"This special report also examines the professional strategies employed by some of our most successful members,” continued Moller. "ASWA provides the resources, networking opportunities, and advice that help more women reach their full professional potential – and that top rung of the career ladder.”

Founded in 1938, ASWA provides women in accounting and finance the leadership, education and networking opportunities needed to achieve their career goals. Over seventy years later, ASWA is still the only organization that solely represents the interest of women in the entire accounting and finance community. The organization's mission is to enable women in all accounting and related fields to achieve their full personal, professional and economic potential and to contribute to the future development of their profession. Visit www.aswa.org for more information.

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