UNC Tax Center

What We Do

At the UNC Tax Center, we build bridges between tax policy, tax practice and tax education. Our mission is to generate and promote rigorous, objective tax research; engage with practitioners and policymakers; and prepare students with the analytical tools and knowledge needed to shape the future of taxation.

Tax decisions influence nearly every aspect of society. We believe that better decisions are made when grounded in evidence. As a university-based center led by accounting scholars, we bring a distinctive perspective—combining deep institutional knowledge with empirical expertise. This allows us to fill a critical gap in the tax discussion relative to other research centers and policy organizations.

We host events and sponsor initiatives that foster the creation, discussion and dissemination of evidence-based tax research. These gatherings provide a forum for thoughtful dialogue on pressing tax issues, bringing together accountants, economists, attorneys and other professionals to exchange ideas and learn from one another.

Our work is made possible through the generous support and strategic guidance of our Leadership Council—a dedicated group of alumni and business leaders who help shape our vision and sustain our continued growth.

Origins of the UNC Tax Center

Douglas A. Shackelford

Allen Wilson

The UNC Tax Center was founded in 2001 by a UNC Kenan-Flagler professor and established academic researcher and a senior tax partner at a major accounting firm, both alumni, to advance their shared vision.

Professor Douglas A. Shackelford and his former Arthur Andersen colleague, Allen Wilson, believed that tearing down silos and bringing together people from different disciplines and with different experiences and perspectives would strengthen the impact and relevance of academic research and promote sound, informed tax policy.

The founders envisioned an organization that would build bridges between scholars, practitioners and policymakers with a shared interest in tax. A place where accountants, economists and attorneys from academia, industry and government could gather, connect and learn from each other.

The center is open to new ventures that involve important business issues in which taxes play a critical role. Private donations and corporate sponsors provide the center’s revenues. For inquiries about the UNC Tax Center, please email taxcenter@unc.edu.