From a Missouri State University student to an award-winning faculty member, Dr. Julie Ravenscraft is giving future Bears the same encouragement that once inspired her own journey. 

Ravenscraft, assistant professor in the Pendleton Family School of Accountancy, was one of four women recently recognized statewide with the 2026 Women to Watch Award by the Missouri Society of Certified Public Accountants (MOCPA). The award honors women who demonstrate leadership, mentorship, community service and contributions to the accounting profession. 

For Dr. Kimberly Church, Pendleton Family School of Accountancy director, Ravenscraft’s leadership stood out long before the award. Church noticed how naturally Ravenscraft supported new faculty members and extended that same care to students and young accounting professionals, even after they graduated.  

“She became the woman I wanted to watch set an example for those around her,” said Church, who nominated Ravenscraft for the award. 

Finding her way back home

Ravenscraft’s connection to Missouri State began in 2005, when she enrolled as an undergraduate student. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting in 2009 and her Master of Accountancy in 2011. 

During graduate school, working closely with faculty introduced her to teaching and research. Their guidance later inspired her to pursue an academic career. After gaining industry experience, she discovered her passion was not only working with numbers, but also with people. 

“I received a lot of mentorship myself,” Ravenscraft said. “Now, I’m giving back to my students.” 

She eventually pursued a doctorate and taught at Arizona State University before returning to Missouri State as an assistant professor in 2022. The student who once turned to professors for guidance was now the professor guiding others.

A recognition shared with others

At the MOCPA Women’s Conference in St. Louis on Oct. 22, Ravenscraft celebrated alongside Missouri State faculty, students and alumni. Church also prepared a video featuring messages from Ravenscraft’s former students, graduate assistants and mentors.

“It really meant a lot to me for them to recognize the impact I’ve had on their academic and professional careers,” Ravenscraft said.

The recognition reinforced what she values most about teaching: helping others grow and succeed.

Small connections, lasting impact

Ravenscraft always encourages students to build relationships with faculty, explore professional opportunities and remain open to different career paths.

She believes meaningful connections often begin with small actions, such as introducing yourself after class or visiting a professor during office hours.

Looking ahead, she plans to continue connecting students with accounting professionals and expanding opportunities in her accounting courses.

For Ravenscraft, success means more than personal achievement. It means helping others reach their goals.

“Believe in your abilities, work toward your goals and find people who’ll support you along the way,” she said.

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