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Professional Insights

Putt for a purpose: Join the AICPA Foundation Golf Classic

Dec 09, 2025 · 2 min read · AICPA & CIMA Insights Blog

Prior to AICPA® ENGAGE 26, there’s one event that sets the tone for connection, impact, and fun before the conference even begins: the Fourth Annual AICPA Foundation Golf Classic. More than a day on the course, this event is a powerful opportunity to give back, build relationships, and help shape the future of the profession.

A world-class venue for an unforgettable experience

Held the day before ENGAGE kicks off, the Golf Classic takes place at the breathtaking Paiute Golf Resort — a desert oasis set against a stunning mountain range, just 25 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. The resort sits about 600 feet higher in elevation than the city, offering slightly cooler temperatures and spectacular views that make for an unforgettable day.

Supporting the next generation of accountants

In 2025, the event raised an incredible $133,000, thanks to 21 generous sponsors and 139 golfers. Those funds helped provide $5,000 scholarships to more than 20 accounting students in financial need. But the need is even greater: Last year, more than 800 students applied for scholarships and only about 20% could be funded. That gap is why this event matters — and why your participation makes a difference.

Bigger than ever: What’s new for 2026

In 2026, the Golf Classic is set to be the biggest one yet, with 160+ golfers expected and expansion to two courses for the first time in the event’s history. This growth couldn’t come at a better time, as it also coincides with the 10th anniversary of ENGAGE.

This is the only in-person fundraising event the AICPA Foundation hosts all year. Every sponsorship, registration, and volunteer hour directly supports accounting education and helps students and CPA candidates who otherwise might not have the financial means to pursue their careers.

What to expect on event day

The day itself is designed to be seamless, fun, and memorable:

Buses depart from ARIA Resort & Casino, the site of ENGAGE 2026, at 6:15am, with breakfast provided onboard.

Registration and warm-up begin upon arrival, with time to socialize and hit the driving range.

Tee-off is at 8am, with a scramble-format tournament that makes it fun for golfers of all skill levels.

The round wraps up around 12:30pm, followed by a sponsor lunch and ceremony.

Players enjoy on-course games, giveaways, closest-to-the-pin and long-drive contests — plus a thrilling $100,000 shootout.

Buses return to ARIA around 2pm.

You don’t have to be an expert golfer to participate. The scramble format is team-based, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned players alike. Not interested in playing? You can still get involved by volunteering, sponsoring, or even riding along to network and enjoy the day.

Prominent leaders from across the profession attend, including executive-level participants and influential voices like Mark Koziel, CEO of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, who joined last year — making this one of the most valuable networking experiences around ENGAGE.

Be part of something bigger

Whether you’re looking to expand your professional network, support future CPAs, or simply enjoy a memorable day on a world-class course, this is your chance.

Register, sponsor, or volunteer today — and be part of something that truly drives the profession forward.

Hannah Pitstick, B.A.

Hannah Pitstick is a content writer at AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants.

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