Shape the next generation of Lumberjack accountants with your Axe of Kindness
Support the Kilpatrick Wilburn Scholarship
For more than 30 years at Northern Arizona University, Dr. Bob Kilpatrick and Dr. Nancy Wilburn did more than teach accounting. They transformed it.
Through mentorship, curriculum innovation, and genuine care for their students, they built a legacy felt in classrooms and boardrooms across the country. Now, you can honor their dedication to education by supporting the Wilburn Kilpatrick Named Scholarship, helping future accounting students discover their potential just as “Dr. Bob” and “Dr. Nancy” helped so many others.
Your gift today, supports scholarships for Lumberjack accounting students who demonstrate both talent and drive.
Dr. Bob Kilpatrick
Bob Kilpatrick’s passion for accounting emerged during his master’s program at the University of Southern Mississippi when a chance to substitute teach launched a lifelong career in education.
After earning his Ph.D. at Oklahoma State, he taught at Texas A&M and later joined Northern Arizona University in 1988. Over 34 years, Kilpatrick shaped NAU’s accounting program as Area Coordinator and established the Accounting Area Advisory Council. His collaboration with alumni and industry leaders ensured students gained real-world readiness.
He co-authored the CCH U.S. Master Compensation Tax Guide, a resource still used today, and received all three of the college’s top honors: Outstanding Teacher, Researcher, and Service Award.
A long-time member of the Arizona Society of CPAs, Kilpatrick’s service included seven years on the Foundation Board, culminating in his election as president. His commitment never wavered, often driving from Flagstaff to Phoenix to attend every meeting.
Dr. Nancy Wilburn
Before her academic career, Nancy Wilburn worked as an accountant and auditor at Deloitte while earning her CPA. But her heart was always in the classroom. After earning her Ph.D. at Texas A&M, she joined Kilpatrick at NAU in 1988.
Wilburn became known for innovative, high-impact projects. One involved reviewing over 100 annual reports to create a deep learning experience for her students. The project drew national attention, and more than 60 schools adopted her materials.
Her classroom strategies evolved with the times. To help students stay engaged with complex topics like leases and income taxes, she used peer quizzes, fill-in-the-blank notes, and collaborative problem solving. Her dedication earned her the ASCPA Excellence in Teaching Award, two ASCPA Innovation Awards, and roles on the Foundation Board and Scholarship Committee.
Life Together and Shared Impact
Bob and Nancy met at Oklahoma State University. One blind date led to a marriage that spanned more than 40 years. When Bob took a position at Texas A&M, Nancy soon followed to begin her doctoral studies.
In 1987, a call from a colleague brought them both to Northern Arizona University, a place they already loved. For the next three decades, they taught side by side.
Each semester, they identified standout students with potential and personality, mentoring them into the accounting profession and shaping the next generation of leaders.
Now retired with emeritus status, Bob continues to update his tax guide while Nancy contributes CPA exam questions. They also enjoy long walks with their dog and time in their Flagstaff home.
Their Legacy Lives On With Your Support
Make your gift today to the Wilburn Kilpatrick Scholarship. Support tomorrow’s accounting leaders by honoring two educators who gave their all to the profession.
