Sault Ste. Marie Chapter Celebrates 25-year CGA, Wayne Lion



Wayne Lion, CGA, is one of four 25-year CGAs from Sault Ste. Marie Chapter this year. Wayne was admitted into membership in 1982; however, he was involved in the local chapter prior to that time. While a student in the CGA program, he was active in the local chapter and served in several positions, including treasurer and also presided as the sixth chair for the 1980-81 year.

Wayne and his wife, Esther, have two adult children, Rob and Amanda. Callie, a schnoodle, rounds out the family. Wayne was born in Saskatoon, but has lived in Sault Ste. Marie for many years and calls our city home.

In the early 1980s, Sault Ste. Marie Chapter was comprised of more students than CGAs and the demography was predominantly male. Deborah Brooks, CGA, served as the eighth chair in 1982-83 and had the distinction of being the first female chapter chair. As a student, Wayne indicated it was hard work, but he was excited to be in the CGA program. The CGA designation has benefited Wayne in building a successful professional practice. Over the years, he has witnessed evolutions in technology as well as progress as in access to practice licences. In 1982, Wayne reminisced that he attended one job interview that focused on reading a printer printout. He also did not use a computer for his CGA program assignments and all submissions were by mail. He is proud of what CGAs have accomplished for professional practice licensing while acknowledging that there are still some hurdles to overcome. Some of the saddest moments in history include scandals such as Enron that have negatively impacted the accounting field resulting in increased reporting requirements with increased complexity for small and medium-sized businesses.

Wayne has had experience with several organizations in the past; however, professional practice has been his passion for the last 15 years. His greatest pleasure comes from working with some great clients and providing them with valuable services.

As a “seasoned CGA,” Wayne believes that “One key to success is to put your social life on hold until you have completed the program. All successful people have had to do that at some point in time.” He also encourages new CGAs and students in the CGA program to find a mentor to help them learn the basics.