Misericordia University's James Pierson Named tecBRIDGE Education Partner of the Year; Student Entrepreneur Earns Top Honors at Business Plan Competition

Dean Jim Pierson's Regional Honor and Student Brady Quinn's Award-Winning Business Pitch Underscore Misericordia's Growing Impact on Entrepreneurship in Northeastern Pennsylvania

DALLAS, Pa. — James Pierson, J.D., CPA, dean of the College of Business at Misericordia University, has been selected as the 2026 tecBRIDGE Education Partner of the Year by the tecBRIDGE Education Partner of the Year Selection Committee.

The award recognizes Pierson's commitment to student success, innovation, entrepreneurship and economic development throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. As dean of the College of Business and director of Misericordia University's Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC), Pierson has championed experiential learning opportunities that prepare students to become ethical business leaders while serving their communities.

Pierson focuses on helping students succeed through rigorous academic programs and a wide range of real-world business learning opportunities. He is a strong advocate for economic development and community engagement across Northeastern Pennsylvania and believes students should be prepared to assume leadership roles in business and society while embodying Misericordia University's values of mercy, service, justice and hospitality.

The honor was presented during the 24th Annual tecBRIDGE Business Plan Competition Awards Ceremony held April 30 at the F.M. Kirby Center in Wilkes-Barre.

The event also showcased the entrepreneurial talents of Misericordia University students. Brady Quinn earned second place and was selected as the competition's Wild Card Winner for his startup venture, Mat Attack, an innovative hygienic mat-cleaning product. Quinn received a $5,000 prize for his presentation.

The annual tecBRIDGE Business Plan Competition challenges students from across Northeastern Pennsylvania to develop, refine and present original business ideas before a panel of judges, encouraging innovation, entrepreneurship and economic growth throughout the region.

Prior to entering academia, Pierson built an extensive career in accounting leadership within the construction, engineering and public accounting sectors. He founded Misericordia University's Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic, which provides free representation, education and advocacy services to low-income taxpayers and those for whom English is a second language. A licensed attorney and certified public accountant in Pennsylvania, Pierson is also a U.S. Army veteran who served seven years on active duty, rising from private to captain.

Pierson earned a law degree from Duquesne University, a master's degree in taxation from Robert Morris University and a bachelor's degree in business from Youngstown State University. He currently serves as dean of the College of Business at Misericordia University, where he works with students and faculty to advance business education, entrepreneurship and community engagement. His recognition as tecBRIDGE Education Partner of the Year reflects his dedication to fostering innovation and preparing the next generation of business leaders.