DR. LANDER TO BE RECOGNIZED AS 2008-9 FLORIDA OUTSTANDING ACCOUNTING EDUCATOR

Dr. Gerald Lander, the Gregory, Sharer & Stuart P.A. Term Professor in Forensic Accounting, has been named the 2008-2009 Outstanding Accounting Educator in Florida by the FICPA.  Dr. Lander will be recognized and presented with his award at the December 17, 2008 meeting of the Board of Governors in Tallahassee.

Dr. Lander has devoted his career to the Accounting profession, and has taught literally thousands of students at USF St. Petersburg.  His dedication to balancing and combining his love for teaching and support of students with his scholarly research and service to the profession is unique among educators today.

Dr. Lander has won numerous teaching and research awards throughout his career.  He has also been particularly active with the Suncoast Chapter of the FICPA over the past few years, and continues to serve on its Board of Directors.  He organized presentations by his graduate students to a FICPA Suncoast Chapter meeting recently, providing an outstanding opportunity for students to interact with professionals and allow CPAs to see the talent and professionalism of Accounting students at USF St. Petersburg.  The success of Dr. Lander’s program caused the FICPA Suncoast Chapter to declare an annual “USF St. Petersburg Day” when student presentations will be made every year.

Dr. Lander was deeply honored by his award.  He said, “I truly appreciate the opportunities I have had to work with so many great people at USF St. Petersburg and in the Accounting profession.  I am humbled by this recognition of my contributions.”

USF St. Petersburg is the only institution in Florida with two Florida Outstanding Accounting Educators from this decade currently on its faculty.  Dr. James Fellows, the 2004-2005 winner, said, “I congratulate Jerry on this achievement, and know what honor and respect this award brings to both the individual and the institution.”

Dean Geralyn Franklin said, “The College of Business is very proud of Jerry, and we are thrilled that he is being recognized in this way.  We all appreciate his many contributions, and it is great to know the Accounting profession appreciates his success as well.”

Dave Walker, Director of the Program of Accountancy, said, “We are very proud of Jerry’s award and the publicity it will bring to him personally as well as to our Program of Accountancy, the College of Business and USF St. Petersburg.  It is the students who benefit the most through their associations with Dr. Lander”

Dr. Lander will be featured in the March/April 2009 edition of Florida CPA Today.  He will also receive a plaque and cash award as a part of this recognition.