People on the Move: Arpin Named RI State Director of New England Society of CPAs

People on the Move: Arpin Named RI State Director of New England Society of CPAs

The Board of Directors of the Rhode Island Society of Certified Public Accountants (RISCPA) has named Dawn Arpin to serve as Rhode Island State Director for the New England Society of CPAs. The boards and members of the state CPA societies of Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont recently approved a merger to form the New England Society of CPAs, effective July 1, 2026.

“Dawn’s deep expertise in both the accounting and association sectors makes her the ideal leader to advance Rhode Island’s priorities and member engagement as we begin a new chapter serving CPAs from across New England,” said Zach Donah, CAE, who will serve as the President and CEO of the New England Society of CPAs. “I am confident her leadership will help strengthen our regional society while ensuring Rhode Island members remain well represented and connected to the issues that matter most to them.”

“Dawn’s experience leading complex organizations, combined with her deep understanding of the accounting landscape, makes her very well qualified to advance Rhode Island’s priorities within the New England Society of CPAs,” said Doryanne Hamel, Chair of the Rhode Island Society of Certified Public Accountants (RISCPA) Board of Directors. “Her proven ability to translate strategy into measurable results and build stakeholder relationships will strengthen statewide advocacy efforts and enhance member value.”

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“It is a privilege to join the New England Society of CPAs and represent Rhode Island in the new organization,” stated Arpin. “CPAs provide vital strategic guidance that supports businesses and strengthens communities throughout the state and region. I look forward to collaborating with members, stakeholders, and fellow State Directors to expand professional engagement, advance strategic advocacy, and ensure the profession remains resilient and successful in an evolving economic landscape.”

Arpin will focus on strengthening member engagement, supporting advocacy efforts, and developing workforce initiatives to meet the future needs of the CPA profession.

Arpin brings more than 25 years of executive leadership in marketing and operations across professional services and associations. Notably, she has deep roots in the accounting sector, having spent over eight years scaling the digital and revenue engine at the major regional accounting firm BlumShapiro. Most recently, she served as Vice President of Operations at Rhode Island Manufacturers Association (RIMA), where she successfully spearheaded comprehensive brand transformation, membership and sponsorship growth, strengthened stakeholder engagement, and advanced strategic initiatives.