From Melody's Desk

October 27, 2016

Dear Team,

This past Friday, I had the opportunity to attend the Multicultural Fluency class offered to all our team and it was simply terrific. The conversation was enlightening, sobering, thoughtful, and open.  I appreciated everyone’s observations and participation and hope that all have gained through this session. Tabitha Enoch and John Alexander are terrific in leading a conversation that can be uncomfortable in a way that is approachable.  We have another session scheduled on December 1 from 1:30 – 4:00 in Carruthers Hall (Carr-1). If you have not yet attended the session, we very strongly encourage your participation in this very important conversation.

During the class, we learned of a recent disturbing incident at Barracks Road where a racial slur was yelled from a passing car towards one of our UVAFinance team members. This is not the first such incident On Grounds this fall. I encourage everyone to watch out for our colleagues to help create a safe environment. If you witness such an incident, please try to snap a picture of the car or catch the license plate. Victims are generally shocked at the incident and aren’t able to get identifying information quickly. Then, report the incident via the UVA Just Report It system. This type of behavior can simply not be tolerated, and we must all take a role in ensuring all our colleagues and students are safe and not threatened.

I also wanted to provide an update on the ongoing search for a leader of our controller/financial administration team. The first search was unsuccessful, and I have thought long and hard about the type of person needed. After reflection, I have decided to revise my approach and am seeking an Assistant Vice President for Finance Operations (AVPFO); the scope of this position will include oversight of procurement, accounting and financial reporting, payroll, tax, internal controls, and accounts receivable. Most importantly, the AVPFO will envision and implement the transformation of core business practices at the University – to include those most critical steps of buying goods and services and paying people, among other finance and accounting activities. This search has begun and, if you know of great candidates and transformational leaders, I encourage them to apply at Jobs@posting number 0619784.

Finally, I want to remind you to vote on November 8^th. Our managers will be flexible to make sure you can vote without taking leave.

Best,

  

UVAFinance Vision: the valued and trusted financial partner that the University community turns to first.

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