UVAFinance in Action: October 2025

L to R: Chailey Hench, Danae Polemi, 
Mark Cartwright, and Sara Johnson-Ward

A Sneak Peek at the Virginia Guesthouse

Members of the Procurement Services Team recently got a behind-the-scenes look at one of UVA’s construction projects: the Virginia Guesthouse, a new hotel and conference center slated to open in April 2026.

During a hard hat tour of the site, the team explored the future guest rooms, meeting spaces, and gathering areas that will soon welcome visitors from near and far. The project will offer a state-of-the-art venue for University events and conferences, along with comfortable accommodations just steps from Grounds.

It was a fun and inspiring visit for our Procurement colleagues, who play an important role in supporting projects like this one that help the University thrive.

Treasury Team Welcomes Donald Cook

After a national search, the Treasury Team is pleased to welcome Donald Cook to UVAFinance.

Cook joins the University as a strategic treasury and finance leader with more than a decade of experience as Corporate Treasurer for two publicly traded companies. Over the course of his career, he has led global teams responsible for cash and forecasting, working capital management, debt and capital structure, financial risk management, insurance programs, and investment management.

Most recently, he worked closely with the UVA Treasurer’s Office as a consultant, partnering on financial transformation efforts for UVA Health. His work helped strengthen governance and operations, simplify payment programs, and improve liquidity management, important steps in bridging the Academics and Health sides of UVA to create a “One UVA Treasury” culture.

A UVA alumnus with a master’s degree in accounting, Donald says returning to Grounds has been both personally meaningful and professionally rewarding. “I’ve truly enjoyed supporting the mission of the University, working alongside the Treasury team, and helping to drive transformational change,” he shares.

Please join us in welcoming Donald Cook to the UVAFinance Treasury Team!

Giving Back: Ajoni Wynn-Floyd Volunteers with Ronald McDonald House

Ajoni and Chamber colleagues

Earlier this month, Ajoni Wynn-Floyd from the Supplier Engagement Team spent time giving back to the Charlottesville community through service. She joined fellow members of the Young Professionals of the Charlottesville Regional Chamber of Commerce to volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House, where they helped prepare meals for families staying there while their children receive medical care.

The Ronald McDonald House provides comfort, meals, and a supportive place to stay for families traveling to Charlottesville for treatment. Wynn-Floyd's participation reflects UVA's ongoing commitment to community engagement and service beyond Grounds.