Seminar Recap: Keynote Discussion with Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell

Joyce Ripianzi, CPA: Given the financial pressures that many nonprofits are facing from increased service demands to flatter or declining funding, what strategies or mechanisms does your office believe are most critical right now to help nonprofits stay financially sustainable and responsive to growing community needs?

Attorney General Campbell: First of all, thank you for having me. I know it’s a trying time, especially for those in the nonprofit sector. Here at the AG’s office, we have an entire division focused on compliance for nonprofits and public charities. We want to be a resource for you, providing technical assistance and guidance. It’s crucial to budget appropriately and include some flexibility within that budget. We also emphasize the importance of being great fiscal stewards. Some organizations do this exceptionally well, while others may struggle due to limited resources. We encourage thinking outside the box and creating partnerships, including public-private partnerships, to ensure financial sustainability. 

Joyce Ripianzi, CPA: We are seeing conversations around organizations with similar missions considering mergers or acquisitions. When is the right time for them to reach out to your office?

Attorney General Campbell: The earlier, the better. Often, organizations come to us at a crisis point, trying to do something quickly. It’s better to involve us early on, so we can offer advice and counsel on a case-by-case basis. Our charities division is always available to help with these decisions. 

Joyce Ripianzi, CPA: Many nonprofit leaders are managing growing complexity—from funding uncertainty to staffing shortages. What advice do you offer to help them avoid becoming overwhelmed?

Attorney General Campbell: Know that you are not alone. Every nonprofit leader I meet is grappling with competing demands. My advice is to pause and prioritize. What is essential? What can wait? And who can you lean on? You do not have to carry it all alone. Also, do not underestimate your networks. Share knowledge and collaborate. Some of the most innovative work happens in collaboration, not isolation. 

Joyce Ripianzi, CPA: Let’s talk a little bit about compliance. What are some of the more common pitfalls that your office observes among nonprofits that can actually get them into situations they shouldn’t be in?

Attorney General Campbell: It really depends, but we frequently get calls from nonprofits navigating compliance issues, whether it’s maintaining their status with the IRS or the Secretary of State. Sometimes it’s about making sure they have the right contact information to get their questions answered on all things compliance. This is especially true for newer organizations or those that may not have the same level of expertise on their boards or within their organizations.

Joyce Ripianzi, CPA: Are there specific areas where nonprofits should be particularly vigilant?

Attorney General Campbell: Absolutely. Board structure, governance, and fiscal responsibility are critical areas. We constantly update our guidance on what good governance looks like and what it doesn’t. Sometimes, we get questions when things have gone terribly wrong, often from community members or people who expected to receive certain services but didn’t. It’s important for nonprofits to have good controls in place and to regularly evaluate their policies.

Joyce Ripianzi, CPA: What trends or emerging concerns is your office seeing across the nonprofit sector that CFOs should be paying close attention to, especially around financial health, ethics, or public trust?

Attorney General Campbell: Financial strain is a significant concern, especially with the uncertainty of funding from federal and other sources. It’s a good time for organizations to look at their budgets and have deep conversations with their boards about governance and fiscal responsibility. We also see concerns related to federal funding being conditioned on certain programs or policies, which can create significant challenges for nonprofits. 

Joyce Ripianzi, CPA: How can organizations stay resilient while also advocating for change?

Attorney General Campbell: Resilience means you can sustain your mission even in challenging times. Part of that strength comes from speaking up about what needs to change. The best leaders build sound internal systems while also engaging externally to push for better policies or more equitable funding. Advocacy can take many forms, from raising awareness to sharing data that tells a more complete story about your work.

Joyce Ripianzi, CPA: Any final message for nonprofit leaders navigating this moment?

Attorney General Campbell: Lead with joy and purpose, even in the face of challenges. Remember why you do this work—for those who feel left out and left behind. Know that you are not alone; we are a resource, and we have your back. Together, we can turn pain into purpose and drive real change. Your dedication to serving others is invaluable, and your efforts make a profound difference in the lives of many. Keep pushing forward, stay resilient, and continue to inspire those around you. Your work matters deeply, and your voice has the power to create lasting impact. 

The conversation offered a clear-eyed look at both the pressures and possibilities facing today’s nonprofit finance leaders. Through candid reflections and actionable guidance, Campbell encouraged attendees to prioritize transparency, resilience, and collaboration—reminding leaders that strategic clarity and strong relationships remain critical in navigating complexity. 

How We Help

Nonprofits manage complex funding, regulatory pressures, and high expectations for financial stewardship. AAFCPAs brings clarity to that complexity. Since 1973, we have supported nonprofit leaders with audits, tax, outsourced accounting, and strategic consulting—all tailored to the unique structure and goals of mission-driven organizations. We advise on compliance, strengthen internal systems, and provide interim financial leadership and guidance to help organizations navigate evolving financial challenges. In addition, we help optimize financial operations and improve reporting processes to support long-term sustainability.

Clients include organizations in human services, education, healthcare, and the arts. We go beyond routine services by offering year-round insights through webinars, events, and one-on-one conversations. Our professionals also provide tailored advice on governance, grant compliance, and financial planning to help nonprofits adapt to changing requirements and achieve operational excellence. This ongoing engagement supports leaders in making informed decisions that advance their missions.

These insights were contributed by Joyce Ripianzi, CPA, Partner, Nonprofit Outsourced Accounting & Fractional CFO. Questions? Reach out to our author directly or your AAFCPAs partner. AAFCPAs offers a wealth of resources for nonprofits. Subscribe to get alerts and insights in your inbox.