The Washburn University Finance Office serves as the central hub for all financial operations of the university. Its primary responsibility is to manage the university’s financial resources effectively and efficiently, ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations and policies. The office’s work touches every aspect of the university, from tuition payments and student financial aid to departmental budgets and investment management.
One of the key functions of the Finance Office is managing student accounts. This includes processing tuition and fee payments, administering payment plans, and handling refunds. The office provides students with a variety of payment options, including online payments, mail-in payments, and in-person payments. They also work closely with the Financial Aid Office to ensure that student aid is properly applied to student accounts.
Beyond student finances, the Finance Office oversees the university’s budget. They work with various departments to develop and manage their budgets, ensuring that resources are allocated appropriately and used effectively. This includes monitoring spending, tracking revenue, and preparing financial reports. The team diligently tracks spending against budget, providing departments with accurate and timely financial information to inform decision-making. This meticulous approach allows the university to maintain financial stability and allocate funds strategically.
Furthermore, the Finance Office plays a crucial role in managing the university’s investments and endowment. They work with investment professionals to ensure that the university’s funds are invested wisely and generate a return that supports the university’s mission. This involves monitoring investment performance, managing risk, and ensuring compliance with investment policies.
Maintaining accurate financial records is another core responsibility. The Finance Office is responsible for preparing the university’s financial statements, which are audited annually by an independent accounting firm. These statements provide a clear picture of the university’s financial health and are used by stakeholders, including the Board of Regents, to make informed decisions. They meticulously maintain the general ledger, reconcile bank accounts, and process all financial transactions, ensuring accuracy and transparency.
The Finance Office is committed to providing excellent customer service to students, faculty, staff, and the community. They strive to answer questions promptly and accurately and to resolve issues efficiently. They also offer training and resources to help individuals understand university financial policies and procedures. By fostering transparency and providing support, the Finance Office contributes significantly to the smooth operation of Washburn University, ensuring its financial stability and enabling it to fulfill its mission of providing quality education and serving the community.