Charleston, SC – TaxDiversity, an initiative designed to strengthen cultural diversity within the tax profession, announced today that it has received its approval as a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization. The TaxDiversity project, which originated as part of the TaxTalent.com Network in 2008, has successfully demonstrated that programs and initiatives are in great need to assist young minorities in identifying potential careers in tax as well as facilitating advancement for experienced diverse professionals within the tax profession into more senior level positions.
According to TaxDiversity founder Tony Santiago, the decision to convert the program into a non-profit organization will help the initiative further in two primary areas. “Going further as a non-profit entity will help us dramatically in our campus outreach programs and in attracting funding support from those companies who wish to help set the proper example of having diverse tax departments. What originally started as a web project with some basic diversity resources has now evolved into a national outreach to solidify the need to expand minority representation and achievement in the tax profession. “, says Santiago.
According to studies originating from TaxDiversity over the last few years:
- A majority of young minorities are not considering tax as a viable profession in their scholastic journey even though lucrative and secure opportunities exist for them within the tax field.
- Minorities are reflected well in certain government tax positions but are still lagging far behind in corporate in-house tax departments and the service sector.
- Women have become better represented in tax but still lack representation in the senior level positions.
- The industry as a whole must recognize the importance of attracting minorities into the profession and elevating them to management roles as well as offering support programs which focus on making a difference.
“Now that we are officially recognized as an educational and charitable venture, I am confident we will be able to increase corporate support to expand our programs in diversity mentoring, job opportunities, scholarships, campus outreach events and continuing to monitor the needs and opportunities that will continue to strengthen diversity within the tax profession.”
About TaxDiversity
TaxDiversity, part of the TaxTalent Network, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization working to attract and promote diverse talent within the tax profession. Tax professionals of all ages and ethnicities can access online resources such as discussion forums, diverse job boards, mentoring programs, articles, industry studies, on campus recruiting events and other helpful career enhancing tools dedicated solely to diverse tax professionals. For more information, visit www.TaxDiversity.com.
