YSU WCBA professor named 2025 Power of Change honoree
Jessie Wright, assistant professor of accounting in Youngstown State University’s Williamson College of Business Administration, has been recognized as a 2025 Power of Change honoree by The Ohio Society of CPAs.
The award, presented during OSCPA’s Women, Wealth & Wellness Conference on Nov. 18 in Columbus, honors women across Ohio who champion workplace equity, mentor and elevate future leaders, contribute to their communities and break barriers for women in the profession.
Wright, a faculty member in YSU’s Lariccia School of Accounting and Finance, is widely recognized for advancing the accounting profession through mentorship, community engagement and student professional development. A former practitioner and nationally certified CPA, CVA and CGMA, she is known for guiding emerging accounting professionals and empowering women entering the field.
“This is such an honor, and I feel blessed to be recognized among such an impactful group of women,” Wright said. “The accounting profession is full of strong, supportive female leaders, and I’m grateful to contribute to that legacy.”
In addition to honoring Wright, OSCPA recognized student scholarship recipients at the luncheon, including Youngstown State University accounting student Raquel K. Diaz-McClendon, a sophomore minoring in nonprofit leadership. Diaz-McClendon was selected based on academic achievement and leadership potential.
“It is an honor to be recognized alongside Jessie,” Diaz-McClendon said. “She has been an inspiration to me since I had her as a professor, and I’m grateful to be entering a profession with so many supportive women leaders.”
Wright mentors women in accounting by guiding them through diverse career paths, work-life balance and flexible models for success. Before joining academia, she built a career in public accounting and holds credentials as a CPA, CVA and CGMA.
Presented annually by The Ohio Society of CPAs, the Power of Change Award celebrates women who drive meaningful change in the accounting profession and business community through mentorship, leadership and advocacy.
