
PIONEERS OF
Accounting Innovations
U-M Professor William A. Paton was a giant in the history of U.S. accounting education, making a lasting impact in accounting thought, teaching, and practice. The Paton Center honors his legacy by inspiring and supporting future generations of accountants to continue to transform the field through innovative work and research.
Pioneers of Accounting Innovations
70 years of awarding scholarships
William A. Paton taught accounting and economics at U-M for 38 years. In 1987, he was named “Educator of the Century” by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. scale, and move from vision to vibrant reality.
Paton Scholarship & Honors

Fellow Scholarship Program
Encouraging Ross BBAs to consider an accounting-related career.

MAcc Program
The next generation of accounting professionals. Going strong for more than 30 years!
Interested in contributing to the Paton Scholarship Fund?
Contributions to the Paton Scholarship Fund not only provide immeasurable opportunities for our students, they:
1921-1959
Dr. Paton is a professor of accounting and of economics at U-M.


1944
Paton receives the American Institute of Certified Public Accountant’s Gold Medal Award.
1987
William A. Paton is honored by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants as the Accounting Educator of the Century.


