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Jessica Lin, associate dean of the College of Business and Technology and former director of the School of Accounting and Business Administration, has been appointed by Illinois Governor JB Pritzker to serve as a public member of the Illinois Board of Examiners (ILBOE).
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Lin Appointed to ILBOE by Pritzker

December 2, 2025

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MACOMB, IL - - Western Illinois University is pleased to announce that Jessica Lin, associate dean of the College of Business and Technology and former director of the School of Accounting and Business Administration, has been appointed by Illinois Governor JB Pritzker to serve as a public member of the Illinois Board of Examiners (ILBOE). Her term began in February 2025 and extends through July 2027.

The ILBOE serves as Illinois' authoritative body for evaluating academic credentials, approving candidates for the Uniform Certified Public Accountants (CPA) Examination and issuing Certificates of CPA Exam Completion. The Board is composed of eleven members appointed by the Governor, including nine CPAs and only two public members, underscoring the selectivity and significance of Lin's appointment. ILBOE plays a critical role in safeguarding the integrity of the CPA pathway, ensuring adherence to the strict academic and ethical standards required for entry into the accounting profession.

Lin's appointment reflects Illinois' recognition of her demonstrated leadership in accounting education, curriculum development, licensure preparation and academic quality assurance. During her time at WIU, she has advanced initiatives that strengthen student readiness for professional practice, enhanced engagement with regulatory bodies and supported the continuous improvement of WIU's accounting and business programs. Her service on the ILBOE will further elevate the University's visibility within the statewide accounting community and reinforce WIU's longstanding commitment to excellence in professional preparation.

"Dr. Lin's appointment represents a significant acknowledgment of her professional expertise and her longstanding commitment to academic and regulatory excellence," Tara Feld, dean of the College of Business and Technology said. "Her leadership within WIU has strengthened our accounting and business programs, and her service on the Illinois Board of Examiners will contribute meaningfully to the standards that guide the CPA profession. We are exceptionally proud to see WIU represented at this level of statewide leadership."

The appointment is something Lin is appreciative of and does not take lightly.

"It is an honor to accept this appointment and to serve the State of Illinois as a public member of the Board," Lin said. "I look forward to contributing to the board's mission and to supporting the rigorous standards that define the CPA profession. This role also provides an important opportunity to further connect WIU's academic programs with the evolving expectations of the accounting field."

WIU congratulates Lin on this distinguished appointment and remains committed to advancing accounting education, strengthening licensure pathways, and preparing graduates for impactful careers in the profession.

For more information on WIU's College of Business and Technology, visit wiu.edu/CBT.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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