Meet your new ISCPA Chair Laura Meier

In 2006, my husband and I decided to move back to the Des Moines area, and I joined the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines as a financial reporting analyst. It’s hard to believe I’ve now been there for more than 19 years, progressing through a variety of roles across accounting, including financial reporting, accounting policy, and corporate accounting, and most recently serving as Controller.

How did you first get involved with ISCPA?
My first interactions with the ISCPA were through CPE courses after I transitioned out of public accounting and no longer had a firm providing that support. I then began attending LEAP program lunches, and a friend encouraged me to join the Financial Literacy Committee she had recently started chairing. As I was new to the area, it felt like a great opportunity to connect with others in the profession.

After serving on the committee for several years, I was asked to step into the chair role and later participated in the Membership Task Force. That path ultimately led to leadership opportunities I hadn’t anticipated, including serving on the board.

What are your priorities as ISCPA chair?
I believe this is an important and transformative time for our profession. We are navigating rapid advancements in technology and artificial intelligence, potential changes in regulation, and the ongoing need to attract, develop, and retain talent.

My focus in the coming year will be on preparing the Society for the future while continuing to support our members through both the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Key priorities include advancing accounting workforce development in Iowa, strengthening advocacy efforts to protect the profession and CPA licensure, expanding leadership development through education and engagement opportunities, and strengthening membership by continuing to deliver value and connection for our members.

Why should members get involved with the Society?
Getting involved with the Society is a great way to grow both professionally and personally. It offers opportunities to build meaningful connections, stay current on industry developments, and gain new perspectives on our profession.

It also gives you a chance to help shape the future—through advocacy, workforce initiatives, or contributing your expertise to committees and programs.

I’ve found that the more you engage, the more you get out of the experience. That involvement not only enhances your own career but also strengthens the profession as a whole.

Who has made an impact on your career success?
It’s hard for me to point to just one person, as I’ve been fortunate to learn from a number of individuals throughout my career. Each manager I’ve worked with has shaped my development in different ways, helping me understand how to use my strengths effectively.

I’ve also learned so much from the teams I’ve been part of. Some of my most valuable experiences have come from collaborating with others, sharing ideas, and working through challenges together. I’ve found that teaching and mentoring others has been especially impactful—it not only allows me to support others, but it also pushes me to keep learning and growing myself.

Tell us about your early years. Where you grew up, your family, and any childhood hobbies and interests.
I grew up in the south suburbs of Chicago with my mom, dad, and younger brother. My mom was a teacher, and my dad worked as a warehouse manager.

Growing up, music was always an important part of my life. I played both piano and clarinet, participated in band and orchestra, and sang in the choir. I continued my involvement in music during my time at Drake University. While I was studying accounting, you could still find me performing in both the marching and concert bands