Cindy Steward

Cindy Steward is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Accountancy at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's Gies College of Business. She holds dual roles in academia and industry, having previously served as Director of Global Reporting at Archer Daniels Midland Company (2013-2019) and held leadership positions at Illinois Power Company (1980-2000). She earned a B.S. in Accountancy (Highest Honors) from the University of Illinois in 1980 and an MBA from Illinois State University in 2006.

Her teaching focuses on advanced financial reporting standards, IFRS, and derivatives accounting. Current courses include ACCY 410 (Advanced Financial Reporting) and ACCY 510 (Financial Reporting Standards), emphasizing critical thinking in accounting policy selection and transaction disclosure.

Her professional presentations address challenges in implementing new accounting standards and improving financial transparency. She received the 2019-20 Dean’s Impact Award for her contributions to the Gies College of Business. Her career includes extensive experience in regulatory reporting, compliance, and strategic accounting projects spanning over three decades.