The University of Nebraska–Lincoln School of Accountancy honored James Anderson, ’97, with the John Connor Family Award at its Celebration of Excellence recognizing his longstanding commitment to the school.
“I'd like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the faculty and the Nebraska Foundation for selecting me for this prestigious award," Anderson said. "I want to take a moment to acknowledge the remarkable contributions of John Connor, '66 & '69, whose leadership and dedication left a permanent mark on the University of Nebraska and the field of accountancy. John held significant leadership positions at Touche Ross and Deloitte Touche, served the industry through his state society and nationally at the AICPA and is directly responsible for this celebration event. John, your contributions on many levels are truly inspiring.”
A first-generation college graduate, Anderson earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in accounting in 1997. Over nearly 30 years, he has built a career in tax planning and compliance, consulting with clients across industries including construction, real estate development, financial institutions, manufacturing and retail. His expertise includes accounting method changes, multistate taxation, choice of entity, tax controversy support and business combinations.
As regional tax quality leader for Forvis Mazars’ Northwest region and a member of the firm’s tax growth committee, Anderson also serves as an adjunct professor at Nebraska and frequently speaks on current tax developments.
"His success in his profession is paralleled by his commitment to the School of Accountancy. Anderson served on the School of Accountancy Advisory Board from 2013 to 2019, where he contributed to curriculum development, student mentorship and helped strengthen ties between the university and the accounting profession. He played a pivotal role in supporting the establishment of the Forvis Mazars Endowed Chair of Accountancy, a major investment in faculty excellence and academic innovation, and has been generous in giving back," said Jimmy Downes, director of the School of Accountancy and George & Evelyn Brewster Professor of Accountancy.
Anderson's dedication to education extends to Lincoln Public Schools, where he supports initiatives that introduce students to accounting and business opportunities early. He and his wife, Amy, are active in the nonprofit sector, supporting causes such as the Lincoln Children’s Zoo and other organizations that enrich communities across the state.
A member of the American Institute of CPAs and Nebraska Society of Certified Public Accountants, Anderson served in executive leadership roles on behalf of community organizations. He currently serves on the board of directors for the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce.
Anderson credited Amy and their children, Grayson, Sam and Will, for their support and recognized the strong network of Nebraska alumni within Forvis Mazars.
“Being honored with an award tied to supporting and advancing the School of Accountancy is due in part to the culture of the firm I’ve been with my entire career,” he said. “Although we’ve had a few name changes over the years, many of my colleagues have served on College of Business and School of Accountancy advisory boards, and retired partners Don Ham and Norm Hitchcock are Hall of Fame inductees. Today, many teammates volunteer on campus and in classrooms. So while I’m deeply honored to receive this award, I truly accept it on behalf of our entire Nebraska practice. Our relationship with the university, the college, the School of Accountancy and the University of Nebraska Foundation is one of the keys to our success.”
