The Baruch student chapter of the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) this year celebrates its 40th anniversary at the College. NABA is the first professional organization of and for accountants of color.
The Baruch-NABA connection runs deep. Double alumnus William Aiken (’63, MBA ’70), CPA, along with eight other African American accountant-activists in the New York offices of major accounting firms, founded NABA in 1969. Mr. Aiken, then an auditor at Arthur Young (precursor to today’s EY), would serve four terms as the association’s president.
Today NABA represents more than 200,000 professionals in financial management fields, providing education, resources, and meaningful career connections to professional and student members, fulfilling the principle of its motto “Lifting As We Climb.” 
Of its work and influence, Baruch chapter advisor Betty DuVerger (MSEd ’95) says, “NABA strives for excellence, professionalism, and service to community. It not only prepares our students for professional opportunities, but membership enriches their overall college experience.” Baruch’s chapter has supported more than 3,000 students since its founding.
On Apr. 26, the chapter’s active and engaged alumni returned to Baruch to celebrate its four-decade milestone with an awards gala and dinner. Also in attendance were current students and past administrators, including Patricia Johnson, who retired in 2010 having served as chapter advisor for 32 years. Sending his compliments was the Zicklin School’s H. Fenwick Huss, PhD, Willem Kooyker Dean: “The Zicklin School of Business salutes NABA for 40 years of achievements at Baruch, preparing its members to embrace new opportunities and overcome challenges in the ever-changing business environment.”
– Diane Harrigan