Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) is proud to announce that Business and IT Division Chair and longtime accounting faculty Lynn Clark, CPA, has been named the 2026 recipient of the Excellence in Teaching Award by the Arizona Society of Certified Public Accountants (ASCPA). Clark is one of only two educators selected statewide this year, recognized for her outstanding contributions as a trailblazer in accounting education.
Presented annually, the award honors an educator, group, or institution that demonstrates exceptional innovation, instructional expertise, and dedication to the field of accounting. As a leading advocate for the profession, the ASCPA celebrates individuals who make learning engaging, relevant, and impactful, qualities that define Clark’s work both inside and outside the classroom.
“Lynn embodies what it means to be an exceptional educator,” said PVCC President Dr. Jana Schwartz. “Her commitment to her students, her craft, and to PVCC extends far beyond the classroom. She leads with integrity, shares her expertise generously, and continuously creates opportunities for students to grow and succeed. We are incredibly fortunate to have her.”
Dr. Sean Petty, who nominated Clark for the award, agreed, emphasizing Clark’s consistency, integrity, and unwavering commitment to student success.
“Lynn’s work reflects a sustained commitment to teaching excellence, student success, and the preparation of future accounting professionals in Arizona,” Petty shared. “She consistently does the work the right way, even when no one is looking. In the classroom, she takes complex accounting concepts and makes them approachable without lowering the standard. As program director, she keeps the accounting program steady and relevant. She’s thoughtful about alignment with industry expectations and what students actually need to succeed beyond PVCC, not just in the course. Students leave her classes more confident, better prepared, and with a clearer sense of direction.”
Clark, who was appointed PVCC’s Business and IT Division Chair in 2025, brings more than 35 years of experience as a Certified Public Accountant to her role. Her ability to translate real-world expertise into meaningful classroom experiences has transformed accounting from an intimidating subject into an accessible and engaging field of study. Through her teaching, she creates an environment where students feel empowered to succeed and envision their future in the profession.
Her leadership has also been instrumental in expanding opportunities for students. Most recently, Clark played a key role in developing PVCC’s Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting program. Since its launch last fall, 448 students have enrolled, reflecting both the demand for and the strength of the program.
Clark’s impact is perhaps best reflected in the voices of her students. Former student Cami Frogge shared, “There are no words to fully capture the impact Professor Clark has had on my life. She is a role model and a guiding force. Her passion for accounting radiated through every lecture, making the subject not only engaging but exciting. Beyond the classroom, she generously shared invaluable real-world insights, showcasing her expertise.”
Originally from Long Island, New York, Clark began her career with Ernst & Young before moving to Phoenix in 1993, where she opened her own accounting practice. While raising her family, she also worked as a financial advisor, building a strong foundation of professional experience that would later shape her teaching. In 2010, she joined PVCC as a faculty member and quickly immersed herself in the opportunities teaching provided. As a first-generation college student, Clark’s own educational journey informs her deep commitment to student success. By sharing her own career journey, she helps students see the many paths available within the accounting profession and equips them with the tools to pursue them confidently.
Clark’s recognition builds on her longstanding impact at PVCC. Through her leadership, teaching, and mentorship, she continues to shape the next generation of accounting professionals while elevating the standard of excellence in education.
For more information about PVCC’s Accounting, Banking, and Finance programs, visit the website.