Dr. Paula B. Thomas has been a member of the Accounting faculty at Middle Tennessee State University since 1989, where she earned the rank of full professor in 1994. From 2002-2007, she served as Chair of the Accounting Department and Advisory Board Distinguished Professor.

       She received a D.B.A. in accounting with minors in finance and quantitative analysis from Mississippi State University in 1987; an M. S. in accounting from Middle Tennessee State University in 1983; and a B. B. A. in accounting from Middle Tennessee State University in 1978.

       Thomas's professional service includes a 3-year term on the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Board of Directors from 2004-2007, where she also served 2 years on the audit committee. She currently serves on the organization's International Qualifications Appraisal Board. Thomas has held several leadership roles in both the American Accounting Association (including Southeast regional president, Section chair) and the Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants (including Council and Finance Committee). She has published over 30 articles on a variety of accounting issues in academic and professional journals, as well as presenting over 50 accounting and professional issues updates to CPAs, and over 20 updates and academic papers to educator groups.

       Thomas has participated in several leadership roles in Rutherford County. Among the various organizations, she has served on the Richard Siegel Foundation Trustees, YMCA Board of Directors, Middle Tennessee Medical Center Foundation Board of Directors and Siegel High School Softball Booster Club. She is a member of the First United Methodist Church and has served on the Permanent Endowment Committee since 2007.

       Her past accomplishments include the American Institute of CPAs Distinguished Achievement in Accounting Education Award (2004), Tennessee Society of CPAs Lifetime Achievement in Accounting Education Award (2006), the MTSU Faculty Public Service Award (2002), and the Tennessee Society of CPAs Outstanding Discussion Leader Award (1999 and 2000).

       "Paula's business, civic and personal accomplishments are most impressive", stated Lee Moss. "The knowledge, wisdom and accounting/financial experience that she has acquired through her varied experiences will be of great value to our Board", he continued.

BACK TO ABOUT US