HOLYOKE, Mass. - Chelsea Russell, CPA, a senior manager in the Audit and Accounting department at Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. (MBK), originally from Sturbridge, Massachusetts and now residing in Newfane, Vermont, was one of only 36 professionals selected by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) for its 2026 Leadership Academy program. 

Chelsea is the second professional from MBK to attend the AICPA Leadership Academy program. She was selected based on her exceptional leadership and mentorship skills paired with her professional experience. 

Chelsea started her career at MBK in 2015 as an intern and transitioned to a full-time position in the Audit & Accounting department in June 2016. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Westfield State University and a Master of Science in Accounting from Baypath University. She is a member and firm ambassador for the New England Society of Certified Public Accountants (NECPA). She also is a member of CPAmerica and the AICPA. 

Now serving as a Senior Manager with over 10 years of experience, she has developed competencies in all areas of the Auditing and Accounting department including commercial, not-for-profit, and employee benefit plan engagements. Chelsea demonstrates leadership qualities every day at our Firm from a technical and administrative perspective, but also through the mentorship program at the firm where she teaches, guides, and coaches young professional. 

Chelsea has played an instrumental role in shaping MBK’s mission and vision and has been a driving force behind the Firm’s commitment to community service. Under her leadership, MBK has developed an active community service program that supports social and civic organizations throughout our local community and across Western Massachusetts. 

Chelsea has spearheaded numerous volunteer initiatives and continues to dedicate meaningful time and energy to the Firm’s give-back efforts. She also serves on the Board of the Westfield State University Foundation, further demonstrating her longstanding commitment to community engagement, service, and the advancement of the communities MBK serves. 

Once an intern herself, Chelsea now plays an integral role in the firm’s internship program, bringing her experience full circle as she helps guide the next generation of interns. Her commitment to strengthening the accounting pipeline extends beyond the firm, as she continues to mentor, support, and inspire the next generation of accounting professionals. She participates in speaking events at colleges and universities and is enrolled in the NECPA’s high school mentor program, helping introduce students to the accounting profession and encourage them to consider careers in the field. 

In addition to her work with MBK, Chelsea has garnered several professional accolades including our local “40 under 40” recognition as well as the NECPA’s “Women to Watch” award- emerging leader category. She has also attended the CPAmerica “Next Generation” conferences and participated in the Upstream Academy “Manager Development Program” and their “Emerging Leaders Academy”, led by industry expert Jeremy Clopton. 

"Chelsea is very conscientious and diligent with her work, and has always demonstrated a high level of professionalism, honesty, integrity, diligence and intelligence in her dealing with both fellow team members and clients alike," said Kristi Reale, CPA, CVA, Partner at MBK. "She also has a very positive attitude and myself, and my colleagues find her enthusiasm contagious. She is willing to put in the extra effort needed for the success of the Firm and she sets a great example for the newer staff. She embodies the kind of leadership the AICPA Leadership Academy was designed to develop, and we're proud to have her represent our team." 

The AICPA Leadership Academy was curated to empower professionals to take themselves to the next level of leadership through best practices and tactics for collaborating, building professional relationships, and leading teams. Over a four-day course, the professionals will gain insights and knowledge through workshops and seminars. 

Chelsea and fellow attendees were recommended by their employer, state CPA societies, and/or volunteer organizations. Applicants had to submit resumes and a statement explaining why and how participating in the AICPA Leadership Academy would impact their professional and personal growth. 

To learn more about the AICPA Leadership Academy, please visit https://www.aicpa-cima.com.