CBO Speaks

Sharron Scott is the chief financial and operating officer for the Vermont State Colleges in Montpelier, Vermont. In this episode, Scott joins host Melissa Farley to talk about navigating one of public higher education's most visible financial crises, making the case for radical transparency with boards and stakeholders, and how a systems-thinking mindset shaped her approach to institutional transformation. "Protect the organization's options and protect your own," Scott says. She explains that liquidity creates space for thoughtful decision-making, while trust gives leaders the flexibility to act without triggering resistance from boards, legislatures, and the communities they serve. "Both of those things require you to be honest—really honest—early, well before conditions are going to force your hand." Scott goes on to discuss how that combination of fiscal discipline and proactive transparency became the foundation of her approach as the Vermont State Colleges climbed from eight days of cash on hand in 2020 to roughly four months of reserves by the time of this recording. Join us for a conversation with Scott as she discusses what it means to lead with a "mile wide, inch deep" knowledge base, how she learned to put people before dollars—and why that shift made the financial decisions easier—and the advice she'd give to aspiring CBOs who bring a nontraditional background to the table. Check out NACUBO's other podcasts! Career Conversations NACUBO in Brief

Robin Van Harpen is senior vice chancellor for finance and administrative affairs at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In this episode, Van Harpen joins our host Donna Schiele to talk about transitioning from legal counsel to CFO leadership, navigating institutional financial challenges, and fostering an environment where talent can thrive. "Leadership in higher education is not easy. It's not for the faint of heart. And that's not going to change," Van Harpen says, reflecting on the realities of higher education leadership. "But I think it is worth it. It's a little bit like my child who's not easy going. And I say, there are challenges, but they are equally matched by the joy." Join us for a conversation with Van Harpen as she discusses UWM's mission as an urban doctoral institution, strategies for maintaining financial sustainability during enrollment shifts, and her approach to leadership development. Links Check out NACUBO's other podcasts! Career Conversations NACUBO in Brief

The fifth edition of the National Profile of Higher Education Chief Business Officers, released last year, offers crucial insights into the career paths, responsibilities, and aspirations of CBOs across the country. In this special crossover episode between CBO Speaks and NACUBO in Brief, host Donna Schiele and NACUBO's Bryan Dickson explore the Profile's findings with Nicole Long, chief financial officer and vice president of finance and administration at Agnes Scott College in Decatur, Georgia, and Peter Elliott, vice president for administrative services at South Florida State College in Avon Park, Florida. The Profile examines key demographic trends in higher education leadership, revealing significant progress in diversity while highlighting areas still needing improvement. Long and Elliott provide valuable context around the study's findings on career pathways, succession planning, and evolving skill requirements. Their discussion emphasizes how the CBO role continues to expand beyond traditional financial oversight, with increasing focus on data analytics, new business models, and strategic planning - areas that require intentional development of future leaders. Join us for an insightful discussion about: Key findings from the 2024 CBO Profile, including demographic shifts and emerging trends Essential skills for modern CBOs, including strategic planning and change management The importance of succession planning and developing future leaders How the role of CBO continues to evolve and expand beyond traditional financial responsibilities Strategies for attracting diverse talent to CBO positions The 2024 National Profile of Higher Education Chief Business Officers provides crucial insights into the changing nature of the profession, revealing how the role continues to expand beyond traditional financial oversight to encompass strategic planning, data analytics, and comprehensive institutional leadership. This discussion brings these findings to life through the experiences of current CBOs, offering valuable perspective for institutions and leaders working to develop the next generation of higher education business officers. Links Learn more about the National Profile of Higher Education Chief Business Officers Connect with Peter on LinkedIn Connect with Nicole on LinkedIn Connect with Bryan on LinkedIn Check out NACUBO's other podcasts! Career Conversations NACUBO in Brief

Carmen Roberts is the executive director of operations at Great Falls College Montana State University in Great Falls, Montana. In this episode, Roberts joins our host Donna Schiele to talk about her journey to becoming a higher education leader, the challenges and opportunities in operations management, and the importance of fostering collaboration among diverse teams. "Don't be afraid to take on something that's outside your comfort zone that you don't necessarily know anything about," Roberts says. She emphasizes the value of embracing new challenges and stepping outside one's job description to gain recognition and demonstrate capabilities. "Those other duties are assigned, that's where you get noticed. That's where people see how hard you work, what you're capable of. If you really aspire to leave, sometimes you have to do that. You have to focus on the other duties as assigned." Roberts goes on to talk about the importance of saying yes to opportunities, even when they may seem daunting or unfamiliar, as a key to career growth and success in higher education operations. Join us for a conversation with Roberts as she talks about navigating leadership transitions, successfully completing major facilities projects, and the motivations that drive her to excel in her role supporting students and staff. Links Check out NACUBO's other podcasts! Career Conversations NACUBO in Brief

Michelle Matis is vice president of finance and CFO at Lake-Sumter State College in Leesburg, Florida. In this episode, Matis joins our host Donna Schiele to talk about her career path in higher education finance, managing financial health during challenging times, and the importance of collaboration and transparency. "I always try to instill that with my team first, that we're going to be transparent. It's helpful if when we're talking to people, we're giving the same message so that there's clarity and consistency," Matis says. She emphasizes the importance of clear communication and using consistent terminology when discussing financial matters. "Making sure we're using the same language is important. Then just communicating often and regularly." Matis goes on to talk about educating staff on the college's finances, funding sources, and budget allocation to foster a shared understanding. Join us for a conversation with Matis as she talks about balancing long-term investments with short-term needs, the evolving role of institutional advancement, and her advice for aspiring financial leaders in higher education. Links Check out NACUBO's other podcasts! Career Conversations (brand new!) NACUBO in Brief

Harry Allen is executive VP for financial excellence and CFO at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. In this episode, Allen joins our host Donna Schiele to talk about his journey from banking to higher education, the importance of relationships and service in leadership, and his vision for the future of finance in higher ed. "I view my role in the many roles that I've had in my career. I'm mostly one that is empowering others and serving as the catalyst," Allen says. He emphasizes the importance of listening, learning and collaborating to find mutually beneficial solutions. "And so I show up to tables to listen and learn. And I think when you spend time doing that first, you get a true understanding of what the person's goals and motivations are versus coming to the table ready to say no to something." Allen goes on to talk about his excitement for the future, seeing AI not as a threat but as a tool to enhance human creativity and innovation. He advises emerging leaders in higher ed to raise their hand for special projects, serve their community, and stretch outside their comfort zone to gain new skills. Join us for a conversation with Allen as he talks about Belmont's explosive growth, building proactive financial infrastructure, and leaving a legacy of service and philanthropy. Links Check out NACUBO's other podcasts! Reach out to Harry on LinkedIn Career Conversations NACUBO in Brief

Claire Knapp is the vice president of finance and administration, chief business officer and treasurer at Manchester University in North Manchester, Indiana. In this episode, Knapp joins our host Donna Schiele to talk about his unique career journey from public accounting to higher education, navigating financial challenges in a post-pandemic environment, and the importance of collaboration and relationships in his role. "If you're stepping into the CBO role, you have to have a strategic mindset. I think it's important to be thinking strategy and also to be able to think strategy with not only the group that you may be working with, but thinking strategically with the cabinet, thinking strategically with the board, bringing strategic ideas," Knapp says. He emphasizes the significance of strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret data effectively. "Relationships are really critical. I view myself as an investor for the university. So when departments or other of our colleagues come and ask them when to spend money, for me, it's an investment. So it's working together with them." Join us for a conversation with Knapp as he discusses the evolving role of a CBO, critical skill sets for aspiring leaders in higher education finance, and the value of mentorship in professional growth. Links Check out NACUBO's other podcasts! Career Conversations NACUBO in Brief

Amanda Withers is the chief financial officer and senior vice president for operations at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas. In this episode, Withers joins our host Donna Schiele to talk about her journey to becoming a CBO in higher education, the importance of leadership and mentorship, and the future of the CBO role. "I think the CBO is going to become more of an integrated leader," Withers says. As resources become more constrained, CBOs will need to be data-informed and lead conversations about cost containment while working closely with other senior leaders. "The CBO role is going to continue to grow in depth and breadth as part of the core leadership of the university." Withers goes on to talk about the importance of showing up and being intentional in both professional and personal situations. She emphasizes that time is our greatest asset, so we must invest ourselves fully in the moments we're in, whether it's a meeting or a child's sports event. Join us for a conversation with Withers as she shares leadership lessons learned throughout her career, the value of formal and informal mentorship, and her thoughts on how higher education and the CBO role will evolve in the coming years. Links Check out NACUBO's other podcasts! Career Conversations NACUBO in Brief