The Certificate of Excellence in Accountability Reporting (CEAR) Board plays a vital role in promoting transparency, quality, and accountability in federal financial reporting. Comprised of leaders from across the public and private sectors, the CEAR Board oversees AGA’s CEAR Program, which encourages federal agencies to produce high-quality Agency Financial Reports (AFRs) and Performance and Accountability Reports (PARs).
What the CEAR Board Does
The CEAR Board’s mission is to support excellence in federal reporting by:
- Promoting best practices in agency financial and performance reporting
- Providing guidance and oversight to AGA’s CEAR Program
- Reviewing and evaluating AFRs and PARs submitted by federal agencies
- Recognizing agencies that demonstrate exceptional commitment to transparent, high-quality reporting
Each year, the Board meets twice to review submissions and program guidelines. The August meeting focuses on improving the review process and program standards, while the April meeting is dedicated to selecting agencies to receive the Certificate of Excellence and other special awards.
Responsibilities and Oversight
Through AGA’s Chief Executive Officer, the CEAR Board:
- Defines eligibility criteria and review guidelines for the CEAR Program
- Approves or rejects reports submitted by agencies seeking certification
- Ensures consistency and integrity in review procedures
- Recommends agencies for special recognition for exemplary reporting efforts
The Board also helps shape the technical standards and reviewer qualifications that keep the CEAR Program current, rigorous, and impactful.
Who Serves on the CEAR Board
The CEAR Board is composed of seven appointed members, including a Chair and Vice Chair. These individuals bring expertise from key sectors, including:
- The Chief Financial Officer community
- The Inspector General community or the U.S. Government Accountability Office
- The Office of Management and Budget
- The Federal Accounting Standards Advisory Board
- The public accounting profession
Two additional members serve in at-large positions, and AGA’s CEO and Senior Manager of Meetings & Programs serve as ex-officio members.
Board members are appointed for three-year terms and may serve up to two consecutive terms. The Chair and Vice Chair are appointed annually and may be reappointed.
