The Iowa Society of CPAs (ISCPA) has named former Bank of Jabez and Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines executive Ardis Kelley as its interim CEO. According to a news release, Kelley’s appointment was effective Nov. 18.

She succeeds former CEO Dawn Latham, who was in the position for more than two years. ISCPA was founded in 1915 and is the largest professional organization dedicated to certified public accountants (CPAs), accounting professionals and accounting students in Iowa, according to the release.

“We are delighted to have Ardis as the Society’s interim CEO,” ISCPA board Chair Erik Bonstrom said in the release. “Her leadership skills, combined with her financial and accounting background, executive experience and CPA designation, will benefit the organization and enable us to continue serving our members.”

Since May, Kelley has served as interim chief financial officer at the Bank of Jabez in Waterloo. She spent more than 12 years as an executive with Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines, first as senior vice president and chief accounting officer, then as chief strategy officer.

According to the ISCPA release, Kelley contributed to “critical discussions surrounding the CPA pipeline shortage and advocated for alternative pathways to CPA licensure,” which were key reasons for her selection. Kelley is also active in outreach events encouraging high school and college students to consider accounting as a career.

The release said her involvement shows her “dedication to shaping the future of the industry.”

“It is a privilege to step into this role at such a transformative time for the profession,” Kelley said. “The ISCPA has been a cornerstone for CPAs in Iowa, and I look forward to working with the board of directors and members to continue driving meaningful impact and ensuring the organization’s ongoing success.”

Kelley has a bachelor’s degree from UCLA and a Master of Accounting from the University of Southern California, according to the release. She has served on the boards of directors of Des Moines Performing Arts, Downtown DSM Board, Greater Des Moines Public Art Foundation, Des Moines Water Works Park Foundation, Bravo Greater Des Moines, Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines and Iowa Public Radio, among others.