Accountably Good:
Conner demonstrates excellence at Business School
When it comes to understanding accounting, students know
Elizabeth Conner is someone they can count on. No matter what level of expertise they bring to the classroom.
For her considerable contributions to the success of her students and to the Business School, Conner, a senior instructor in accounting and certified CPA, is the 2006 Excellence in Teaching honoree.
Conner’s creative approach to teaching takes many paths. She pioneered a totally online MBA introductory financial/managerial accounting course as early as 1998. In 2002, she assisted colleagues in developing a complete MBA course, fully available online. Today she serves as online mentor to the business school faculty
On the subject of accounting, Conner says, “I view myself more as an ‘illustrator’ than as a ‘teacher’”. Her style of instruction incorporates clear illustrations of key points that help students more quickly grasp underlying concepts and practical applications.
“Betty’s handouts in classes are definite ‘keepers’. They’ll provide invaluable reference in my future profession. She’s also the type of person you can call with any questions any time,” says student Danalee Miller.
Conner’s enthusiasm for the field of accounting has taken her far afield—even to India. Attending the Management Development Institute faculty development program in Gurgaon, 2006, she brainstormed with faculty from several universities in New Delhi and Mumbai. Together, they collaborated on a vision for a UCDHSC Business School initiative that would offer an MS in accounting to students in India.
Back in Colorado, she continued to update her knowledge through a week-long summer Web Camp hosted by CU Online. She actively worked with Ernst & Young public accounting firm to identify students for summer internships and the second annual Conference for Women.
Conner sums up her teaching philosophy by saying, “I believe many students have a certain amount of fear towards accounting. I find it challenging and yet very rewarding to present it in a non-threatening way. When I’m excited about the topic and concepts, they share in the excitement and experience an enhanced learning environment.”
This honoree clearly creates such an environment. It’s one in which every student can become, like their teacher, a winner.