11:15 AM - 12:15 PM | February 9, 2024

Dare to be a Leader

Description

In this moderated discussion, hear from two long-time women leaders in higher education about their leadership path, the lessons they have learned, and the advice they would share with those who aspire to leadership roles.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify the career paths of women leaders in higher education finance.
2. Learn the value of strong communication.
3. Understand the role networks play in developing personal strength and strategic leadership.

About the Speaker

Dana Keith, Senior Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, University of Alabama System Office

Dr. Dana S. Keith is Senior Vice Chancellor for Finance & Administration for The University of Alabama System, where she has served since 2016.In her role, she directs the day-to-day administrative activities for the UA System Office including financial reporting, payroll, human resources, investments, facilities management, and information technology. She has oversight of Systemwide investment activities, including the endowment and operating reserves of the UA System’s universities and health system, as well as its affiliates. Her role also oversees Systemwide nonprofessional liability and other insurance placements. As a liaison between the Board of Trustees and its entities, Dana has responsibility for the Finance, Investment, Compensation, and Physical Properties Committees of the Board.Dana serves on the Board of Directors of UAB Medical West and as the Chancellor’s designee on multiple affiliated foundations of the UA System. Prior to joining the UA System Office, she was Associate Vice President for Financial Affairs with The University of Alabama for 12 years. She also worked at The University of Southern Mississippi for 12 years, serving in a variety of audit, budgeting, and administrative positions. In addition, her career includes healthcare experience and work as a senior auditor with Ernst & Young. Dana earned her Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from The University of Alabama, her B.S. and M.B.A. degrees from Southern Mississippi, and a B.S. degree in Medical Technology from Mississippi State University. She holds a CPA certification.

Kelli Shomaker, Sr. Vice President for Business & Administration & CFO, Auburn University

Ms. Kelli Shomaker is in her seventh year as the Senior Vice President for Business and Administration and Chief Financial Officer at Auburn University. Ms. Shomaker is a seasoned administrator having spent over twenty-seven years in higher education, including sixteen years at Texas A&M University. Ms. Shomaker oversees financial reporting, budgets, procurement and payments, cash management, debt management, facilities, real estate, human resources, trademark and licensing, and numerous administrative units on campus. Ms. Shomaker received her bachelor’s degree in accounting from Texas A&M University, a Master’s in Higher Education Administration from Auburn University and is a Certified Public Accountant. Prior to higher education Ms. Shomaker was the Vice President, Treasurer and Controller for a publicly traded investment company and worked as an auditor for the accounting firm of PricewaterhouseCoopers. Ms. Shomaker serves as a Board member of the Retirement System of Alabama, the Alabama Public Education Employees Health Insurance Plan, and the Treasury Institute of Higher Education.

Kelly Epting (Moderator)