Sponsor: NYSSCPA Manhattan and Bronx Chapter

Amount per recipient: $1,000

Background

The New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA) Manhattan/Bronx Chapter created this scholarship to honor the memory of one it’s board members, Theodore A. Wilson, CPA, who led a life of selflessness and service.

Ted Wilson was a United States Marine and a graduate of Baruch College. Ted was the first African American accountant hired by the New York Office of Arthur Young & Company (1965), where he became an Audit Manager. He then became a Partner in Aiken & Wilson CPA’s. For over 40 years Ted was an active member of the NYSSCPA volunteering in countless ways and helping to promote the CPA profession. Throughout his brilliant career Ted nurtured and developed young accountants of all. He was a community activist, and served on the boards of many charitable, professional and community organizations, in addition to the NYSSCPA, such as Abbott House, Bronx Community Health Network and the Westchester Children’s Association. Ted was also an active member of the AICPA. He was a leader in the growth of the National Association of Black Accountants, Inc. (NABA), where he served as their third National President.

When Ted wasn’t volunteering and spending time with family, he enjoyed running and biking. However, his real fascination was with the sky. He became a pilot in the 1970’s, and then fell in love with skydiving. In 2010, during his 546th jump, he and a friend were fatally injured. At the time of his death, Ted was in line to become the Manhattan/Bronx Chapter President.

With this scholarship, the Manhattan/Bronx Chapter hopes to award students who have similar passions to be an outstanding person and CPA, with a desire to help and give back to others.