Vanessa Tijerina, DBA, CPA
Associate Professor of Accounting
Dr. Vanessa Tijerina is an accomplished educator and accounting professional, currently serving as an Associate Professor of Accounting at Anderson University. She holds a diverse academic background, having earned her undergraduate degree in accounting and an MBA from Anderson University. Committed to continuous learning, she pursued and successfully completed her Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) at George Fox University.
With a strong foundation in accounting, Dr. Tijerina embarked on her professional journey, dedicating the early years of her career to various nonprofit organizations. Her experience in the field culminated in a pivotal role as the Assistant Treasurer and Controller in the Business Office at Anderson University, where she served for nine years, the last five in a leadership capacity.
In 2017, Dr. Tijerina transitioned to a full-time faculty role at Anderson University, bringing her wealth of practical experience into the classroom. As a dedicated and passionate educator, she primarily teaches undergraduate accounting courses, with a focus on sharing real-world insights with her students. Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, she also imparts her knowledge to MBA students, creating a holistic learning environment.
A testament to her dedication and expertise, Dr. Tijerina earned tenure in 2023, a recognition of her significant contributions to both the university and the field of accounting. During a sabbatical in the same year, she achieved a notable professional milestone by successfully passing all four sections of the CPA exam, further enhancing her credibility in the accounting profession.
Residing in Anderson, Indiana, Dr. Tijerina shares her home with her husband, Tom, and their delightful canine companion, Eleanor Rigby (Rigby). Her commitment to family extends to her twin stepdaughters and her granddaughter, who also reside in the area.
Beyond her academic and professional pursuits, Dr. Tijerina is an avid enthusiast of active pursuits, finding joy in indoor rock climbing, mountain biking, and hiking. Her love for mental stimulation is evident in her pastimes, which include reading and engaging in various games.
Driven by a passion for effective teaching methodologies, Dr. Tijerina actively explores best practices in education. She is committed to refining her skills as a professor and mentor, ensuring that she provides the highest quality education to her students. Dr. Tijerina embodies the spirit of a lifelong learner, seamlessly blending academic rigor with practical experience in the ever-evolving field of accounting.