Janie Whiteaker-Poe

Janie Whiteaker-Poe is an Assistant Professor of Accounting at Drury University in Springfield, Missouri. She brings a strong academic and professional background to her role, having earned an undergraduate degree in accounting from Missouri State University, a law degree from Washington University in St. Louis, and a PhD from the University of Kansas in 2013. She also holds CPA and JD credentials and is a member of the Missouri CPA Society.

Before entering academia, Janie gained extensive professional experience, including serving as a manager at KPMG LLP and spending eight years in Washington, DC, auditing federal executive agencies. Her academic career has included serving as a PhD candidate and graduate teaching assistant at the University of Kansas. At Drury University, she teaches accounting and directs a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) tax clinic, combining her expertise in accounting and taxation with a commitment to community service and student development.

Janie is particularly passionate about making a meaningful impact on students, whom she views as future leaders. She emphasizes ethical behavior, empathy, perseverance, and a willingness to help others, seeking to model these values in both her professional and personal life. Her own career reflects determination and lifelong learning, having persevered through personal challenges while completing multiple degrees and rigorous professional examinations. She encourages aspiring academics and young professionals to pursue fields they are genuinely passionate about, remain committed to continuous learning, and use their knowledge to positively influence others.