Shirley A. Langley, CPA,
CPA, Sole Proprietor
Business owner and CPA Shirley A. Langley is no stranger to success. She grew up in rural Arkansas witnessing success, under extraordinary circumstances, as one of 15 children born to parents with a third and eighth grade education. Her parents, two major motivators on Langley’s road to success, believed so deeply in the power of education that all of their children graduated college.
When she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree, she proved to be equipped with motivation and an innate capacity for high-level achievement. Langley passed the CPA exam on her fi rst attempt. This achievement is true for less than 5 percent of test takers in the nation.
A former IRS agent and 20-year accounting professional, Langley believes that dedication, commitment, an outstanding work ethic and family are the keys to success for women and anyone else who chooses to accomplish great things.
“Most people believe women to be weaker than men because we are women. I believe a woman’s perspective either becomes her prison or her passport to greater opportunities,” says Langley. “Personally, I choose to get up every day and strive to be the best me for that day. I am keenly aware that what I do on that day will impact the opportunities that are afforded me in the future.”
Throughout Langley’s career, education has been a constant and it is an essential part to the advice she gives young women who take a similar path. “Get the proper education and skills before venturing on your own,” says Langley. “Also, don’t be afraid to ask someone already in that field for advice. You’d be surprised just how many people would be willing to offer advice.”
Langley is a member of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Inc. MECCA Chapter and the Atlanta Business League.
