New Financial Leadership Appointments at Southern Oregon University and St. Bonaventure University

Southern Oregon University (SOU) and St. Bonaventure University have recently announced new appointments in their financial leadership teams, signaling a commitment to enhancing their administrative and financial strategies. Dr. Carson Howell will take on the role of Vice President for Finance and Administration at SOU, while Anna Addonisio has been appointed to the same position at St. Bonaventure University.

Key Takeaways

• Dr. Carson Howell joins SOU from Snow College, where he successfully eliminated a financial deficit.
• Anna Addonisio, previously at Orlando Health Sciences University, brings extensive experience in higher education finance.
• Both leaders are set to begin their roles in February 2024.

Dr. Carson Howell’s Appointment at Southern Oregon University

Dr. Carson Howell, currently the Vice President for Finance and Administrative Services at Snow College in Utah, has been appointed as SOU’s new Vice President for Finance and Administration (VPFA), effective February 18, 2024. Howell has a proven track record in financial management and strategic planning, having played a pivotal role in eliminating Snow College’s structural financial deficit and leading the development of a new strategic plan.

His previous accomplishments include:

• Negotiating land-use agreements and lease agreements for student housing.
• Doubling the endowment fund of Snow College’s foundation in five years.
• Implementing an enterprise risk management process that minimized insurance premium increases.

Howell expressed enthusiasm for joining SOU, stating, “I love the comprehensive approach to education, and I am enthusiastic about SOU’s future.” He will oversee various departments, including Business Services, Human Resources, and Information Technology, and will report directly to the university president.

Anna Addonisio’s Role at St. Bonaventure University

St. Bonaventure University has appointed Anna Addonisio, MBA, CPA, as its new Vice President for Finance and Administration. Addonisio, who will begin her role in mid-February 2024, previously served as the founding chief financial officer at Orlando Health Sciences University. Her leadership there was instrumental in achieving financial stability and supporting the institution’s rapid growth.

Key highlights of Addonisio’s career include:

• Directing a $150 million annual financial plan at SUNY Cortland.
• Implementing innovative budgeting strategies that contributed to student success initiatives.
• Leading significant infrastructure projects at Binghamton University.

Addonisio is committed to fostering collaboration and inclusivity within the university community. She stated, “I look forward to contributing to such a vibrant community and aligning financial strategies with the university’s mission to empower students.”

Implications for Both Universities

The appointments of Howell and Addonisio reflect a strategic move by both universities to strengthen their financial leadership amid evolving educational landscapes. Their extensive experience in higher education finance positions them well to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Both leaders will play crucial roles in:

• Enhancing financial stability and strategic planning.
• Building community partnerships and advancing their respective institutions’ presence.
• Supporting academic and administrative goals through effective resource management.

As they step into their new roles, Howell and Addonisio are expected to bring fresh perspectives and innovative strategies to their universities, ultimately benefiting students and the broader community.

Sources

• SOU hires new Vice President for Finance and Administration – SOU News, SOU News.
• Addonisio named VP for Finance and Administration at St. Bonaventure, St. Bonaventure University.
• SOU announces new Vice President for Finance and Administration – KOBI-TV NBC5 / KOTI-TV NBC2, KOBI-TV NBC5 / KOTI-TV NBC2.