Jennifer Lewis, previously Winthrop’s associate vice president for fiscal services/controller, has been promoted to vice president for finance and business affairs/chief financial officer (CFO), effective Oct. 1.
As vice president, Lewis oversaw roughly 25 employees in various budgeting positions at the university. Her enthusiasm for the position influenced her promotion, said President Edward Serna.
“In the last two years, Jenni has worked incredibly hard to learn public higher education,” Serna explained.
“She has built an effective team of seasoned and new to Winthrop professionals, joined the National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO), realigned the service areas within finance and business affairs, led recent successful audits and budget planning sessions, brought the business center concept to life, and impressed her team, the cabinet and board leadership with her financial acumen and creative problem solving.”
Kevin Butler, the previous CFO, has helped Lewis transition into her new role through two years of mentorship. Butler will continue to oversee large financial projects through a part-time, nine-month consultancy.
“I am honored and excited to serve as Winthrop’s CFO and am grateful to President Serna, the Board of Trustees, and my colleagues on the cabinet for their confidence and support,” Lewis said.
“I look forward to working collaboratively across the university to advance the priorities of Winthrop’s strategic plan, strengthen our business operations, and position the university for long-term financial success,” she added.
