William Ross Heck (1925-2005) left an indelible mark on accounting education and tax law during his nearly three decades in the College of Business. 

As an FSU faculty member from 1959 to 1988, including a stint as interim chair of the accounting department, Heck attained distinction and admiration for his expertise in tax law and dedication to mentoring students. He maintained close relationships with public accounting firms that recruited on campus, contributing to launching many careers.

Heck earned numerous accolades, including Florida's Outstanding Educator Award from the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants in 1986.

He won a Professor of the Year Award from Beta Alpha Psi, an honors organization for accounting, finance and information systems students and professionals, and he twice won an Instruction Efficiency Award from Alpha Kappa Psi, a professional business fraternity that focuses on principled leadership.

Heck's contributions extended well beyond the classroom. He served on the FICPA editorial committee, which named him an Outstanding Seminar Leader for six consecutive years, and his name appeared in the publication “Who’s Who in the South and Southwest” from 1976 to 1984. He also served on FSU’s faculty senate.

He co-authored numerous publications on tax laws and related issues and conducted professional development courses for practicing accountants. He also was active in the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Louisiana Society of Certified Public Accountants and the American Accounting Association.

Heck earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Auburn University, which later honored him as a Distinguished Accounting Alumnus, and a Ph.D. from Louisiana State University. He began his academic career at Georgia’s Columbus State University in 1959 before joining FSU that same year. 

He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and the Korean War and earned the Bronze Star Medal, among other decorations. 

After retiring from FSU, Heck taught two years at Clayton State University, in Morrow, Georgia.