Dr. Billy Morehead’s Commitment to Student Success and Ethical Leadership Recognized by MSCPA
MC Business is thrilled to announce that Dr. Billy Morehead has been named the 2024 Mississippi Society of Certified Public Accountants (MSCPA) Outstanding Educator. This prestigious award was presented at the MSCPA Annual Convention at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Destin, Florida, on Saturday, June 22, 2024.
Dr. Morehead has over 30 years of experience in education and administration. He holds a BBA in Accounting from Delta State University, a Master of Accountancy from Millsaps College, and a Ph.D. from the University of Southern Mississippi in addition to being a licensed Certified Public Accountant in Mississippi and a Certified Government Financial Manager. Dr. Morehead has served in various roles, including auditor and CFO at Mississippi State Hospital. At Delta State University, he served as Vice President for Finance and Administration, Interim Business Dean, Chair, and Associate Professor of Accountancy until his retirement from state service in 2011.
Since joining the MC Business faculty, Dr. Morehead has continued to make a profound impact. As a Professor of Accountancy and the Director of both the Master of Accountancy Program and the Center for Faith, Service, and Ethics, his dedication to education is evident. When asked what inspired him to pursue a career in education, Dr. Morehead says, “I’ve always enjoyed conducting training. After 10 years in the field, I began teaching as an adjunct professor and realized how much I enjoyed it.”
A particularly rewarding aspect of Dr. Morehead’s career is seeing former students reach their goals and return to share their successes. One student reflected, “Dr. Morehead is truly a gem to the School of Business. On a study abroad trip to Guam, I watched him take the time to understand each individual student’s goals and help them achieve them. I left the island more equipped to make a difference in the world, and I’m truly thankful for Dr. Morehead’s guidance.” Dr. Morehead understands the pressures college students face and strives to be a supportive presence by implementing an open-door policy. His empathy and approachability have made a significant difference in the lives of many students. For new teachers entering the profession, Dr. Morehead advises, “Don’t sweat the small stuff. Work to make a difference in students' lives and remember, students are why you are here.”
A trailblazer in modern education, Dr. Morehead launched the first online Master of Business Administration program at Delta State in 2008 and the first online Master of Accountancy program in Mississippi at Mississippi College in 2018. He believes technology plays a critical role in modern education, integrating video conferencing and online tools to connect with students worldwide.
Winning the MSCPA’s Outstanding Educator of the Year award is a meaningful recognition for Dr. Morehead, who has been a member of the MSCPA for almost 40 years. “It’s wonderful to be recognized by colleagues and within the accounting organization. It means a lot to know that I’ve made a difference,” he reflects. Dr. Morehead is excited about the future, especially with the MC School of Business opening the Center for Faith, Service, and Ethics. He strives to continue influencing students in the marketplace, showing it possible to combine professional excellence with a strong faith. He believes in demonstrating to students how to shine their light creatively in all they do.
Please join us in celebrating Dr. Billy Morehead as the 2024 MSCPA Outstanding Educator Award recipient. Congratulations, Dr. Morehead!