Advisor History
Beta Alpha Psi’s Xi Eta Chapter at the University of North Florida thrives under the guidance of faculty who
lead with integrity, expertise, and a passion for student success.
Professor Jeffrey Gottlieb
Professor Jeffrey Gottlieb is a seasoned tax professional and Associate Instructor in the Department of Accounting and Finance at the University of North Florida (UNF). He brings over 35 years of experience in taxation, having led tax functions for major public companies such as Security Capital Group, The St. Joe Company, and Southeastern Grocers. Before entering academia full-time in 2016, he spent more than a decade in public accounting, including serving as a Director at Coopers & Lybrand.
Professor Gottlieb holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Cornell University, a Master of Science in Accounting from SUNY Albany, and a Master of Science in Taxation from American University. At UNF, he teaches courses such as Individual Taxation (TAX 3001), Corporate and Partnership Taxation (TAX 3011), and Tax Planning for Financial Decision Making, and is known for his engaging lectures, high standards, and practical insights drawn from industry experience.
He also serves as the faculty advisor for UNF’s Beta Alpha Psi Xi Eta Chapter, where he supports students in developing professional skills and ethical leadership. His contributions have earned him recognition including Financial Services Professor of the Year (2017) and Undergraduate Accounting Professor of the Year (2018).
Professor Mark Leininger
Professor Mark Leininger is a respected former accounting professor at the University of North Florida (UNF), where he taught for over two decades and left a lasting impact through his rigorous instruction and student mentorship. A UNF alumnus himself, Professor Leininger earned both his Bachelor of Business Administration and Master of Accountancy from the university, later becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
His teaching portfolio included foundational and advanced courses such as Principles of Financial Accounting, Intermediate Accounting I & II, Advanced Accounting, Fund Accounting, and international study abroad programs in London and Paris. Known for his structured approach, detailed video lectures, and challenging exams, he was praised by students for his clarity, fairness, and commitment to academic excellence.
Professor Leininger also played a vital role in UNF’s Beta Alpha Psi Xi Eta Chapter, serving as faculty advisor during key years of its development and helping students connect classroom learning with professional readiness. His leadership in BAP and dedication to experiential learning through global programs underscored his belief in preparing students for the real-world demands of the accounting profession.
He retired in early 2025, leaving behind a legacy of high standards, mentorship, and transformative education.
Dr. Jeffrey Michelman
Dr. Jeffrey Michelman is a distinguished Professor of Accounting and International Business at the University of North Florida (UNF), where he has served for over three decades in roles ranging from Associate Dean to Founding Director of the Hicks Honors College. Holding advanced degrees from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Washington University in St. Louis, and the University of Delaware, he is also a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), and Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA).
Dr. Michelman’s career reflects a deep commitment to global education, having taught in China, Spain, France, Fiji, and Poland, and he has led several of UNF’s flagship international business initiatives. Widely published in accounting, ethics, and healthcare finance, he is also a dedicated mentor and advisor, instrumental in launching UNF’s Beta Alpha Psi Xi Eta Chapter and actively involved in organizations such as Phi Kappa Phi, Beta Gamma Sigma, and Rotary International.
His legacy blends academic rigor, global engagement, and community leadership, shaping generations of students and elevating UNF’s reputation in business education.
