It is hard to believe another academic year is coming to a close. And while some on campus view the summer as a time for vacation or perhaps a slightly lighter workload, I know for many of us in Finance and Operations, the summer is when we really get to work. Those of us who aren’t wrapping up business from the last academic year are making plans and preparations for the next. For example, many staff in Facilities Services use the summer as a time to work on construction, maintenance and grounds projects, so it’s not as disruptive to our students. Those of us working in finance are supporting fiscal year end close; preparing for the annual state audit and financial report; or working with our campus partners on their planning for the next fiscal year’s budget.
Speaking of the budget process, I’m happy to share that we are midway through our new budget process timeline — budget submissions are being provided and campus units have begun to present budget information to our leadership team. These presentations will continue through May and will help us establish a baseline budget for our entire campus. I am optimistic that we will begin the new fiscal year with a clear campus-wide understanding of strategic priorities and funding environment. Learn more about our new budget process.
Are you wondering why this new budget process is so important to me and to our campus? It is simple: our driving force every day is to be responsible stewards of our campus and state resources so that we may support the academic and research mission of the University and ensure Carolina remains affordable to any student who gains admission. And I want to thank you all for everything you do to help support our goal.
This is also the time of year the campus celebrates the C. Knox Massey Distinguished Service Award winners, and I’m proud to boast that two of these distinguished recipients are F&O staff members. If you haven’t already, please congratulate Nancy Burton of Facilities Services and Deborah Hawkins of Transportation and Parking, who were awarded one of the most coveted distinctions earned by Carolina faculty and staff. We are so proud of our staff members who were recognized for their “unusual, meritorious or superior contributions” to campus.
In this issue of “On the Go,” we highlight just a few of our staff members who directly support our student population in interesting and dynamic ways. I hope you find the information inspiring and helpful. And even though we don’t take an official break over the summer, I hope that you are able to find the time to relax and enjoy yourself before the next school year starts!
With sincere thanks for all you do,
Jonathan Pruitt
Vice Chancellor
UNC Finance and Operations