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Lecturer in Accounting Lynn Wolf hods a blue sweatshirt embroidered with her name and the words "No Falcon Left Behind."
Lynn Wolf’s students expressed their love and appreciation by giving her a custom sweatshirt embroidered with her signature phrase: “No Falcon Left Behind.” (photo by Kevin Maguire, all other photos courtesy Lynn Wolf)

Lynn Wolf Named 2025 Educator of the Year by MassCPAs

by Molly Mastantuono

Lynn Wolf ’88, MBA ’00, a Double Falcon and senior lecturer in Accounting, has been named a 2025 Educator of the Year by the Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants (MassCPAs).

Founded in 1900, MassCPAs is a professional association representing more than 11,500 members in public accounting practice, industry and business, government and education. Each year, it recognizes a full-time accounting educator at a Massachusetts college or university who has demonstrated excellence in classroom teaching, motivating students and inspiring educational innovation.  

After a successful, 30-year corporate career spanning roles in public accounting, technology start-ups and venture capital, Wolf became a full-time Bentley faculty member in 2000. Now that she’s teaching on the campus where she once studied, she strives to “take what I learned in the real world and bring it back into the classroom for my students.”

Both a metaphorical and literal cheerleader — Wolf committed this year to attending at least one home game for every Bentley sports team — she has been recognized consistently for her dedication to students. Among the honors she’s received:  

“My Bentley degree has given me a great career and life and working with my fellow Falcons is the best job ever,” Wolf says. “To be surrounded each day by such talented students who will go on to make a difference in this world is a true gift.”  

For her students and colleagues, the feeling is mutual. Read on to see what they shared about Wolf as they nominated her for MassCPAs’ Educator of the Year: 

Autumn Coulthard ’23, MBA ’25

“Professor Wolf’s ability to break down complex accounting concepts into digestible, real-world applications ensures that no student is left behind. She fosters an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, and she is always willing to meet outside of class to reinforce key concepts, whether that means additional office hours or one-on-one tutoring. Her patience and ability to adapt her teaching methods to different learning styles set her apart as an educator who truly prioritizes student understanding.  

Beyond the classroom, Professor Wolf’s commitment to her students extends to mentorship and leadership development. She was instrumental in helping me found the Bentley Skating Club (BSC), a dream I’d had for years. As the faculty advisor, she provided guidance, encouragement and logistical support, making it possible to bring this vision to life. Whether it was navigating university policies, securing resources, or simply being a trusted advisor, she was there every step of the way.”  

PICTURED: Wolf with (from left to right) Coulthard, Sydney Gilroy ’27 and Elly Monaco ’25 — Bentley students who are also members of the Haydenettes, an elite synchronized ice skating team.

Lynn Wolf with Bentley students and competitive ice skaters Autumn Coulthard, Sydney Gilroy and Elly Monaco ’25.
Lynn Wolf clinks water glasses with Bentley mascot Flex the Falcon.

Ryan Divelbiss ’26, MSA ’26

“Lynn Wolf is not just an educator — she is a transformative force, a mentor and unwavering advocate who invests in her students’ futures as if they were her own family. Her classroom culture is one of inclusivity, encouragement and profound discussions, creating an environment where students thrive both academically and personally.

I had the privilege of taking an intensive one-week graduate course with Lynn, during which she brought in a professional from her network each day to provide real-world insights. This experience was life-changing, inspiring me to pursue forensic accounting. Her tireless efforts in crafting such a unique and meaningful course solidified her as the best professor I have ever had.” 

Pictured: Wolf and Flex the Falcon share a toast during a luncheon celebrating Bentley’s First Falcons.

Eric Gaynor, Lecturer in Accounting

“Lynn Wolf is an outstanding educator. She does an exemplary job making topics relatable to students, using case studies and real-world examples to help them better understand the underlying concepts. She is also a terrific motivator, encouraging students to do their best and not letting them become too upset about a bad grade.

Lynn’s motto is ‘No Falcon Left Behind.’ Students know they can always turn to her for help. In fact, she often has a line out the door during office hours. I have worked closely with her for the past 3 1/2 years and have found her to be incredibly dedicated to opening up the world of accounting to as many students as possible.” 

Pictured: Wolf, far left, and Gaynor, far right, with fellow members of the Accounting department.

Wolf poses with fellow faculty from Bentley's Accounting department.
Lynn Wolf and Ryan McBride

Ryan McBride ’23, MSA ’24

“Lynn is someone who goes above and beyond for her students, often holding office hours late into the night and meeting with students where they are most comfortable: in the student center on campus.  

She is perhaps best known for her warm spirit and genuine desire to see every student succeed — or, as she puts it, to see ‘No Falcon Left Behind.’ Having worked with Lynn as her graduate assistant, helping to supporting her curriculum changes and various other projects aimed at improving the student experience and promoting the accounting profession, I can think of no one more deserving of this award.” 

Pictured: Wolf and McBride at his 2024 graduate commencement ceremony.

Tracy Noga, Professor of Accounting

“Lynn’s effectiveness in the classroom is unparalleled. Her ability to engage and inspire students is evident from the overwhelming popularity she enjoys among the student body. Her rigorous teaching methods, combined with her approachable manner, enable students to grasp complex concepts while being genuinely challenged to expand their knowledge and skills.  

One of Lynn’s most notable contributions is her redesign of Bentley’s introductory financial accounting course. Her innovative curriculum has not only made accounting concepts more relatable but has significantly enhanced student engagement. This redesign is credited with a remarkable 40% increase in our Accounting majors over just a few years, a testament to Lynn’s impactful teaching and curriculum development.  

Furthermore, Lynn’s collegiality and support extend beyond her students; she is a pillar of strength for her peers, always ready to assist, advise and collaborate. Her contributions to our academic community are invaluable, and her dedication to education and student success is evident in every aspect of her work.”

Pictured: Wolf, a devoted fan of Bentley’s men’s ice hockey team, hoists the Atlantic Hockey Association (AHA) Championship cup following the team’s historic win earlier this year.  

Lynn Wolf holding the Atlantic Hockey Championship cup.

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