The Barry C. Melancon Professional Accounting Research (PAR) Fellowship was established to support the next generation of accounting and finance professionals with the skills, knowledge, and training to advance the accounting and finance profession. The fellowship honors the legacy of Barry Melancon's 30-year leadership tenure at the AICPA & CIMA, as well as his dedication, advocacy, and future-focused commitment to the profession. The Fellowship aims to initially support doctoral students who are undertaking research to advance the science of public or management accounting practice.

• Award Amount: Up to $10,000. This is a one-time-receipt award; it may be awarded to an individual only once during their doctoral program.
• Number of Recipients: Two awards per year, with one focused on public accountancy and the other on management accounting.
• Application Period: Year-round. For consideration in the next academic year, applications must be submitted by March 15. Selection decisions will be communicated between May 31 and June 15.

To qualify, applicants must:

• Register on ThisWayToCPA.com/faculty-signup as an accounting faculty member or professional. Registration will provide you access to the Academic Resouce Database, educator webinars, and more to support you in building the accounting pipeline. AICPA & CIMA membership is not required.
• Be enrolled in an appropriate doctoral accounting program at a higher education institution.
• Demonstrate strong academic performance.
• Engage in practical research that advances public or management accounting practices.
• Have a clear, approved research proposal outlining the potential impact of their work.
• Commit to teaching and research at an accredited university post-graduation.
• Hold a U.S. CPA or CGMA/FCMA/ACMA certification at the time of application.
• Have relevant professional experience in public or management accounting.

Application Materials

Applicants should prepare the following:

1. Completed Application Form.
2. Research Proposal or Summary - detailing ongoing research.
3. Official Academic Transcripts - with grading system explanation.
4. Proof of CPA or CGMA/FCMA/ACMA Certification.
5. Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume.
6. Letters of Recommendation - 2-3 letters from academic or professional references.
7. Statement of Purpose - an essay on career goals, research interests, and fellowship benefits.
8. Institutional Endorsement - a letter from the doctoral advisor or department chair.
9. Statement of Financial Need - outlining project expenses (e.g., conference travel, software).
10. Evidence of Community or Professional Involvement - e.g., membership in AICPA, CIMA, AAA, CMA, AFAANZ, EAA, BAFA, AAFA, etc.

Selection Process

Contact Information: