University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Dr. Roopa Venkatesh Appointed to IFAC International Panel on Accountancy Education

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) College of Business Administration proudly announces that Dr. Roopa Venkatesh, Ph.D., CMA, Director of the School of Accounting and Union Pacific Professor of Accounting in the College of Business Administration, has been appointed to the International Panel on Accountancy Education (IPAE) of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC). Dr. Venkatesh is the first public nomination to the panel—this is the first time IFAC has appointed someone who was not nominated by an IFAC member or a Forum of Firms member.

IFAC’s members and associates consist of over 187 professional accountancy organizations (PAOs) in more than 140 jurisdictions, and its total membership represents millions of professional accountants across the globe.

The International Panel on Accountancy Education plays a pivotal role in advancing accountancy education globally, providing strategic advice to IFAC on preparing the next generation of professional accountants. The panel’s members, who represent key stakeholders—drawn from leading professional accountancy organizations, firms, businesses, and academia—offer diverse perspectives to help shape the future of the profession.

As a member of the IPAE, Dr. Venkatesh will contribute to the panel’s threefold mission to:

• Serve as a strategic advisor for IFAC’s accountancy education work plan;
• Advocate for high-quality accountancy education worldwide and within their home regions; and,
• Act as an access point for global accountancy education resources.

“I am truly honored to represent the University of Nebraska at Omaha and contribute to IFAC’s important mission of advancing accountancy education globally,” said Dr. Venkatesh. “This opportunity allows me to engage with international leaders in shaping how we prepare future accountants who can meet the evolving needs of the profession, regardless of the accounting license or certifications that they may pursue.”

Dr. Venkatesh’s appointment reflects her leadership, expertise, and commitment to excellence in accounting education. At UNO, she has been instrumental in enhancing academic programs, fostering student success, and strengthening partnerships with the accounting profession.

Phil He, Ph.D., UNO Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, said, “Dr. Venkatesh’s appointment to a global panel of this caliber is a powerful example of what it means to bring UNO to the world, and to bring the world to Omaha. Her leadership shows that students don’t need to leave Nebraska to access a world-class education, because that level of excellence lives right here on our campus.”

“Dr. Venkatesh’s appointment to this prestigious global panel underscores her outstanding reputation as an educator and thought leader in accounting,” said Dr. Steve Schulz, Interim Dean of the College of Business Administration. “Her contributions will not only elevate UNO’s visibility on the international stage but also strengthen our commitment to developing accounting professionals who make a global impact.”

Dr. Venkatesh will serve a three-year term, with the possibility of reappointment for a second term.

About the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC):
IFAC is the global organization for the accountancy profession, dedicated to serving the public interest by strengthening the profession and contributing to the development of strong international economies. Through its initiatives and partnerships, IFAC supports high-quality standards, education, and capacity building for accountants worldwide. Learn more about the IFAC here - https://www.ifac.org/ and the IPAE here - https://www.ifac.org/who-we-are/advisory-groups/international-panel-accountancy-education