8 November 2024
Mary T. Washington: Trailblazer, Mentor, and CPA Icon
Every now and then, someone breaks down barriers and builds pathways for others to follow. Mary T. Washington Wylie was one such person. As the first African-American woman to become a certified public accountant (CPA) in the United States, she didn’t just master numbers—she conquered societal hurdles. Her story is one of grit, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to reshaping an entire industry.
From Humble Beginnings to Ambitious Heights
Born in Vicksburg, Mississippi, in 1906, Mary’s journey was marked by resilience from the start. After her mother passed away, her family moved to Chicago, where she would eventually graduate from Wendell Phillips High School, showcasing an early talent for numbers. Little did anyone know that this young girl from a small town was set to redefine the world of finance.
Mary’s career began at Binga State Bank, one of the largest African-American owned banks in the country, where she worked under Arthur Wilson, one of the first African-American CPAs. Inspired by his mentorship, she pursued a business degree at Northwestern University, where she was the only woman in her class. She didn’t just keep up—she excelled.
By the 1940s, she was on her way to making history, already laying the groundwork for her own firm before she had even graduated.
Making History One Step at a Time
In 1943, Mary T. Washington Wylie achieved a groundbreaking milestone, becoming the first African-American woman to be certified as a CPA and only the 13th African-American CPA overall. Her success became a beacon, drawing aspiring African-American accountants to Chicago, where her firm became a pivotal training ground.
The firm she founded grew to be more than just a business—it was a legacy in the making. With her husband, Donald Melvin Wylie, at her side (often preparing late-night meals during tax season), they created a supportive space for CPAs to thrive against the odds. Together, they redefined what was possible for African-American professionals in accounting.
Building an Enduring Legacy of Opportunity
In 1968, Washington Wylie teamed up with Hiram Pittman and Lester McKeever to form Washington, Pittman & McKeever, one of the largest African-American -owned accounting firms in the U.S. They didn’t just manage accounts—they managed legacies, serving major clients such as the Chicago Public Library and even Muhammad Ali. Mary’s influence continued well beyond her retirement in 1985, as many of her protégés went on to establish their own firms, amplifying her impact across generations.
A Visionary Leader Paving the Way
Mary T. Washington Wylie wasn’t just a CPA; she was a visionary. She was instrumental in establishing Chicago as the city with more African-American CPAs than anywhere else during the mid-20th century. But her legacy wasn’t just about numbers—it was about representation. Mary knew that opportunity mattered, and she was tireless in her commitment to elevating African-American accountants, giving them the skills and support they needed to thrive in an industry where they were often overlooked.
Numbers Don’t Lie—Her Legacy Lives On
Mary T. Washington Wylie’s life is a testament to how one person’s persistence can change an entire industry. Her influence is still seen today, with Chicago boasting one of the largest populations of African-American CPAs in the country—a lasting testament to her work in building opportunities where there were none. In a field that often seemed like a closed door, she didn’t just open it; she held it open for others to walk through.
If you’re inspired by Mary T. Washington Wylie’s legacy and are ready to elevate your own financial journey, Retinue is here to support your path. Call us on 1300 823 040 today, and let us help you build a legacy of your own.
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