John Shepherd: A Leader in Accounting Education and Community Service

John Shepherd is a highly regarded Accounting Faculty member at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU), where he has significantly contributed to the academic community for over 15 years. Known for his leadership, dedication to education, and active community service, Shepherd has made a lasting impact both in and outside the classroom. This article delves into his professional background, accomplishments, and contributions, shedding light on his influential role at KPU, his work with various organizations, and his educational achievements.

Early Career and Education

John Shepherd’s career is marked by a deep commitment to education, leadership, and community service. Shepherd holds a Master of Science degree in Strategic Focus from Heriot-Watt University, where he graduated with distinction. Additionally, he earned an MBA with a concentration in Finance from the University of British Columbia and is a Certified General Accountant (CGA) certified by CGA British Columbia. These educational accomplishments laid the foundation for his extensive career in accounting and business education.

In addition to his formal qualifications, Shepherd’s commitment to continuous learning is evident in his pursuit of professional development. He holds the prestigious Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation from CPA Canada and is a Fellow of CSI (FCSI®), demonstrating his expertise in the field.

John Shepherd at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU)

Since joining Kwantlen Polytechnic University in 2009, John Shepherd has been an integral part of the institution’s Accounting Faculty. His experience spans a broad range of accounting topics, including financial accounting, business law, and management. He is known for his dynamic teaching methods, which combine theoretical knowledge with practical application.

As an instructor at KPU, Shepherd has developed a reputation for energizing his students, making complex accounting concepts accessible and engaging. His teaching style is deeply rooted in real-world applications, which allows students to see the direct relevance of their studies to their future careers. Shepherd’s classes are structured in a way that encourages critical thinking and problem-solving, making him a favorite among students.

Community Involvement and Leadership

Outside of his work at KPU, John Shepherd is an active leader in his community. He has held various directorial positions in several organizations, contributing his time and expertise to projects that have a positive impact on the community. One of his most notable roles is as the Chair of the Donations Committee for the Rotary Club of North Delta, a position he has held since 2018. In this role, Shepherd oversees the distribution of funds to local organizations and works closely with BC Gaming to manage financial reporting and applications for grants. His leadership in this capacity has helped the Rotary Club raise significant funds for various community projects.

Shepherd’s passion for community service is not limited to his work with the Rotary Club. He has also served as a Library Trustee for Surrey Libraries, where he made significant contributions to the library’s development and services. His work was recognized with the prestigious Nancy Bennett Award in 2014, an honor presented by the British Columbia Library Trustees Association for his contributions to the advancement of library services.

Moreover, Shepherd has been involved with Corpus Christi College and St. Mark’s College at the University of British Columbia (UBC) as an adjunct faculty member since 2021, further expanding his influence in the academic sphere.

Significant Professional Experience

John Shepherd’s professional journey includes leadership positions at several institutions, where he contributed to the growth and development of academic programs. He was a Business Program Coordinator at Northwest Community College in Prince Rupert, where he worked for nearly a decade, developing and teaching business administration courses.

In addition to his role as a faculty member, Shepherd served as the Chair of the Education Council and the Business Program at Northwest Community College, where he was responsible for curriculum development and ensuring the quality of the academic programs. His work in these roles had a profound impact on the college’s business programs, shaping the future of many students who went on to pursue successful careers in business.

Shepherd’s experience also includes a role as a business analyst at the Rocky Mountain Business Development Centre Society, where he helped small businesses secure funding and expand their operations. His strategic guidance helped quadruple the society’s service area, demonstrating his ability to drive growth and create value for organizations.

Recognition and Awards

Throughout his career, John Shepherd has been recognized for his excellence in both teaching and community service. In 2023, he received the KPU Distinguished Teaching Award, a testament to his exceptional contributions to the university’s academic environment. This honor reflects the high regard in which Shepherd is held by both his colleagues and students.

Shepherd’s leadership and commitment to education have also earned him recognition from various organizations. His work as a member of the FCSI Ethics Committee and the FCSI Advisory Council highlights his ongoing contributions to the professional accounting community. Additionally, his involvement with the Prince Rupert Airport Authority and Prince Rupert Public Library further underscores his dedication to community development.

Impact on Students and the Community

John Shepherd’s impact extends beyond the classroom, as his projects have positively affected not-for-profit organizations and community initiatives. His work in community service learning has been particularly impactful, with case studies developed based on his projects to help not-for-profit organizations secure over $4 million in funding. These efforts have not only benefited the organizations themselves but also provided valuable learning experiences for Shepherd’s students, who have been involved in these initiatives.

Through his leadership, Shepherd has helped shape the future of many students, both academically and professionally. His students benefit from his extensive knowledge of accounting and finance, as well as his practical approach to teaching. The projects he spearheads also give students an opportunity to apply their learning in real-world situations, preparing them for successful careers in business.

Conclusion

John Shepherd is a respected educator, community leader, and professional in the field of accounting. His work at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, along with his contributions to various community organizations, has had a lasting impact on both his students and the broader community. Through his leadership, teaching, and service, Shepherd has demonstrated the power of education to drive positive change and create value in society.

With a career spanning decades, Shepherd’s influence continues to grow, and his commitment to education and community service remains unwavering. As an instructor, leader, and mentor, John Shepherd is an inspiration to all who have had the privilege of working with him. His story is one of dedication, passion, and a relentless pursuit of making a difference.

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