MC accountancy professor receives AGA Lifetime Achievement Award

AGA credits Billy Morehead for shaping the future of government financial management as an educator, mentor and thought leader.

Billy Morehead, professor of accountancy in the Mississippi College School of Business, is one of five financial professionals nationwide to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from AGA, one of the largest professional organizations dedicated to serving the needs of financial professionals working for governmental entities or agencies.

The prestigious award from the organization formerly known as the Association of Government Accountants recognizes Morehead’s impact on the field of government financial management. He is the first and only recipient representing state and local governments and universities.

“Billy Morehead has shaped the future of government financial management as an educator, mentor and thought leader,” AGA said in a statement. “A strong advocate for professional certification, he advanced the CGFM (Certified Government Financial Manager designation) and inspired students and practitioners alike.

“Through his teaching, research and service to AGA, Billy has elevated standards of accountability, transparency and excellence across the profession.”

Morehead accepted the award during AGA’s 75th anniversary reception Sept. 24 in the Atrium Hall of the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, D.C.

“I’m excited that the passion for my 27-year career in state government in Mississippi and my additional 15 years as a full-time professor have made a difference in so many lives,” Morehead said. “I’m truly humbled and honored to represent AGA, government financial management professionals, state and local governments, and academics when receiving this award.”

Morehead obtained his B.B.A. from Delta State University, his M.Acc. from Millsaps College and his Ph.D. from the University of Southern Mississippi. He joined MC’s faculty in 2011 and teaches a variety of accounting courses. His areas of expertise include governmental accounting, fraud and leadership. Recipient of AGA’s National President's Award, he was named MC Faculty of the Year in 2011.

Also receiving Lifetime Achievement Awards from AGA were industry leaders Gene L. Dodaro, Renee Gilman, Jeffrey Steinhoff and Hank Steininger.

Founded in 1950 and headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, AGA has more than 14,000 members worldwide. The organization advocates for government financial performance, accountability and transparency and provides training, professional certification, publications, events and networking opportunities. Membership includes a broad range of professionals, such as accountants, auditors, budgeters, financial managers, academics and students interested in government financial management.