Prior to joining Yavapai College in 2023 as a Professor of Accounting, Dr. Fahim Mazumdar, who holds a Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus in Accounting, managed 19 separate operations for major fast-food restaurants and drugstore chains across New Hampshire and Massachusetts. He also taught and mentored undergraduate and graduate students at Rivier University in New Hampshire.
Dr. Mazumdar also served as one of the elected Board Directors for the New Hampshire Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, where he was also elected to be the Chair of the Professional Development Committee for the professionals dedicated to fraud prevention, detection, and deterrence.
“I came to Phoenix, Arizona from New Hampshire for one of my doctoral residencies and immediately fell in love with the state,” Dr. Mazumdar said. “I remember thinking, ‘One day, I might move here.’ When I saw the Yavapai College position posted online, it aligned perfectly with my goals at that time—and the rest is history.”
Dr. Mazumdar’s expertise spans multiple dimensions of accounting and beyond. In addition to teaching financial and managerial accounting, he brings deep knowledge in fraud prevention, forensic accounting, and risk management, supported by his Certified Fraud Examiner credential and over 14 years of experience in that field and his published doctoral research on occupational fraud. These allowed him to help organizations and professionals strengthen internal controls and ethical practices over the years.
At Yavapai College, Dr. Mazumdar says that he’s committed to fostering an environment where students excel in accounting and business education. He focuses on delivering rigorous, high-quality courses and creating Open Educational Resources that make learning accessible and transformative.
“I design innovative, interactive materials that reflect the dynamic nature of accounting and business,” Dr. Mazumdar said. “Through curriculum development, mentoring, and academic advising, I empower students to build practical skills essential for success in today’s competitive marketplace.”
Dr. Mazumdar said that accounting is often called “the language of business” because it communicates the financial health and performance of organizations in a clear, standardized way. He said that it’s essential for decision-making, compliance, and strategic planning. Without accurate accounting, businesses cannot measure profitability, manage costs, or ensure transparency for stakeholders.
“Accounting not only opens doors to diverse career opportunities in auditing, taxation, forensic accounting, and corporate finance, but it also builds a foundation for leadership and ethical responsibility in today’s competitive business world,” Dr. Mazumdar said.
This field of study also teaches critical thinking, ethics, and risk management skills that are vital for preventing fraud and maintaining trust in financial systems, Dr. Mazumdar said. By mastering accounting, students gain tools to interpret and analyze data, empower them to make informed decisions, and contribute meaningfully to any organization.
“Another area I’m passionate about is mentoring students on how to write professionally and scholarly,” Dr. Mazumdar said. “Strong writing skills are essential for success in accounting and business and helping students master this craft is one of the most rewarding parts of my role. And the most fulfilling part? Receiving so many heartfelt appreciations from my beloved students. Those messages remind me why I do what I do.”
Dr. Mazumdar said that as an educator and Certified Fraud Examiner, this discipline allows him to bridge theory and practice, helping students and professionals “connect the dots” between financial data, ethics, and leadership. He finds that it’s deeply rewarding to see learners develop confidence and competence that will shape their careers and strengthen organizations. The continuous evolution of accounting standards and technology keeps him intellectually engaged and committed to lifelong learning.
“I believe that an adequate teacher educates reactively, but a truly magnificent teacher illuminates hearts and minds while exercising intelligence proactively,” Dr. Mazumdar said. “My approach to teaching is rooted in anticipation, foreseeing challenges, inspiring curiosity, and creating learning experiences that go beyond the textbook and instructional materials. Education is not merely the transfer of knowledge; it is the art of connecting ideas, ethics, and real-world applications in ways that empower students to think critically and act responsibly.”
Yavapai College operates seven campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County and offers over 100 degrees and certificates, four baccalaureate degrees, student and community services, and cultural events and activities. To learn more about Yavapai College, visit www.yc.edu.
