Ashley Phillips

Ashley Phillips serves as Associate Professor of Accounting in the Accounting Department at the College of Business, University of Central Arkansas (UCA), with an office in COB 204C and contactable via aphillips@uca.edu or (501) 450-5333.

Her academic credentials include:

• LL.M. in Taxation from University of Florida College of Law, Gainesville, FL
• Juris Doctorate, cum laude, from University of Arkansas School of Law, Fayetteville, AR
• B.S.B.A. in Accounting from University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR

Professor Phillips specializes in Taxation and Accounting, with research focusing on tax legislation impacts, service-learning pedagogy, and government transparency. Her work bridges theoretical knowledge with community engagement through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program partnership with United Way of Central Arkansas, providing critical tax services to low-income populations while offering experiential learning for students.

Her publication portfolio demonstrates consistent expertise in tax policy evolution, particularly regarding the CARES Act and Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, revealing trends in how legislative changes affect accounting practices and public finance transparency.

Recognition for her contributions includes:

• Peter J. Mehl Service-Learning Faculty of the Year Award (2021-2022)
• College of Business Excellence in Service award (2021)

Through the VITA Program, Phillips integrates community service with academic instruction, creating meaningful student development opportunities while addressing systemic financial barriers in Central Arkansas. Her approach exemplifies applied scholarship where classroom theory directly serves public needs through tax assistance initiatives.