Accounting Faculty Member Recognized for Service

Lynda Schwartz, a lecturer for the department of accounting and director of the forensic accounting and analytics programs, was recognized with one of three Forensic and Valuation Services Volunteer of the Year Awards from the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) for 2021.

The awards were given during the AICPA Forensic and Valuation Services Conference in November. Schwartz was cited for her work advancing the interests of the forensic and valuation services area. Her long experience specializing in fraud investigation and forensic accounting through her own practice have informed her work teaching at Isenberg, and her expertise is a foundation of the school’s curriculum, including a graduate certificate in forensic accounting.

"I am so honored by this recognition,” Schwartz said. “Forensic accountants focus on managing the risks of fraud and wrongdoing and helping address business claims and disputes. These business risks are pervasive and perennial.” She added, “My work in service to my clients and the broader profession supports and informs my work with students.”

The AICPA also lauded Schwartz’s work as a member of its Certified in Financial Forensics Committee as well as her previous role as a member of its Forensic and Litigation Services Committee. “Schwartz has been instrumental in several AICPA Forensic Technology and Valuation Services Section initiatives,” the organization said. “Serving as co-chair of the FLS Forensic Technology Task Force, she leads a team of forensic technology experts in the development of the FVS Section’s reference guide on ‘Understanding the Forensic Technology Landscape.’”

That guide, Schwartz said, “responded to a gap in learning resources for students and practitioners alike. Now, we use it as a teaching text in my classes. Our forensic accounting courses bring these real-world challenges and approaches to life, so that every Isenberg student is ready to confidently respond as an ethical business leader."