Become the leader our profession needs next.
The MSATP Emerging Leaders Program is a cohort for accounting and tax professionals ready to grow beyond technical skill — into voices, mentors, and future leaders of the Maryland profession.
Leadership doesn't happen by accident.
Through virtual learning, live networking, real skill-building, and peer mentorship, ELP participants develop the leadership foundation they need to grow as professionals, build stronger client relationships, and become the next generation of voices shaping accounting and tax in Maryland.
This program is built on the belief that technical expertise alone does not make a great practitioner — leadership, communication, business development, and professional identity matter just as much.
Build a peer community
Small-cohort connection across firm types and specializations that lasts long after graduation.
Grow real skills
Communication, executive presence, business development, ethical judgment, and thought leadership.
Be mentored, then mentor
Learn from MSATP board members and experienced practitioners — and pay it forward.
ELP is for people ready to lead — at any stage of their journey.
You don't need a title. You need to be curious, committed, and generous with your cohort. If that's you, this program is for you.
- CPAs, Enrolled Agents, tax preparers, and bookkeeping professionals
- MSATP members in good standing (membership required to participate)
- Second-career professionals building a practice on top of a full life
- Committed to attending monthly sessions and completing program requirements
- Within the first 10 years of your accounting and tax career
Every accepted participant places a $25 seat deposit. It's fully refunded when you complete the program — a small commitment to your cohort, and to yourself.
A cohort is only as strong as the promise each member makes to it.
No more than two missed sessions across the program.
Complete assigned readings, videos, and reflections before each session.
Bring your real experience, especially when it's uncomfortable.
Develop and present a Professional Development Grant Proposal.
Show up for peers. Celebrate their wins. Be a resource.
Ten sessions. One transformative program.
All virtual sessions run from 5:00–6:00 PM. The program is intentionally shorter than a full year, with sessions clustered through January and a capstone event in June.
| Date | Time | Format | Topic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sept 22, 2026 | TBD | In Person | Kickoff & Leadership Identity |
| Oct 6, 2026 | 5:00–6:00 PM | Virtual | Leadership Foundations |
| Oct 20, 2026 | 5:00–6:00 PM | Virtual | Communication & Executive Presence |
| Nov 10, 2026 | 5:00–6:00 PM | Virtual | Business Development for Leaders |
| Dec 1, 2026 | 5:00–6:00 PM | Virtual | The Future-Ready Firm (AI & Tech) |
| Dec 15, 2026 | 5:00–6:00 PM | Virtual | Ethical Leadership & Professional Judgment |
| Week of Jan 5, 2027 | 5:00–6:00 PM | Virtual | Building Your Niche & Thought Leadership (day TBD) |
| Jan 13, 2027 | TBD | In Person | Mid-Year Mixer & Mentor Speed Networking |
| June 10, 2027 | 1:00 PM | Virtual | Emerging Leader Grant Pitch |
| June 23, 2027 | TBD | In Person | Graduation & June Presentation and Awards — Kent Narrows, MD |
The Phyllis Burlage Emerging Leader Grant
At the June Graduation Celebration, every participant presents a Professional Development Grant Proposal to a panel of MSATP board members and group leaders. One participant is awarded the $1,000 Phyllis Burlage Emerging Leader Grant — funding to invest directly in their next chapter.
But every participant who completes the program is a winner. The real prize is who you become across the program.
Who you are, where you're headed, what the grant would fund, and why.
Your growth, your vision, and your ask — in front of the selection panel.
Use funds for CPE, coaching, conferences, credentials, or a firm initiative.
Ready to become an Emerging Leader?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and enrollment is capped at 10. Applicants must be current MSATP members. Second-career professionals are strongly encouraged to apply. The application deadline is August 31, 2026.
Accepted participants receive a login for the participant portal, where each session's prework, manual, videos, and Zoom link live.