On the afternoon of July 7, the Party Branch of the Accounting Department held a heartfelt retirement symposium under the theme “Passing the Torch, Honoring the Glory.” All faculty members of the department attended the event, joined by Associate Dean Ran Hongtao, to pay sincere tribute to retiring professors Hou Xiaohong and Zhang Yajie.
Professors Hou and Zhang have been key contributors and witnesses to the development of the accounting program. With long-term dedication to teaching and research, they have actively participated in curriculum design and departmental affairs, promoted mentoring mechanisms and resource sharing, and made outstanding contributions to both the program’s growth and faculty development.
Professor Hou Xiaohong is renowned for her academic rigor and excellence in developing the Cost Accounting course, which has been recognized as both a provincial-level high-quality course and a first-class course. She also spearheaded the establishment of the Wang Zhifang Inspirational Scholarship, developed in collaboration with alumni. Since its founding in 2012, the scholarship has provided 260,000 RMB in financial aid to students from underprivileged backgrounds, becoming a meaningful vehicle for passing on the program’s values and spirit. During the symposium, Professor Hou emotionally reflected on her teaching journey, encouraged young faculty to stay true to their mission while embracing innovation and self-care, and expressed hope that the scholarship would continue to carry warmth and conviction forward.
Professor Zhang Yajie has long taught core courses such as Intermediate Financial Accounting and Accounting Practice Training and Assessment. She is known for her meticulous work ethic, care for students, and willingness to assist others. She has generously mentored younger colleagues and earned deep respect and trust from both students and peers. In her speech, Professor Zhang expressed heartfelt gratitude to the institution, her colleagues, and her students. Though she has now officially retired, she conveyed her willingness to continue supporting the program’s development in new ways, remaining a devoted member of the academic team.
Written by: Guo Zhenyu, Tan Xueping
Photographed by: Zhou Yan, Chi Guodong
First Review: Liu Jianyong
Second Review: Li Xinchun
