GUNNISON, Colorado: Western Colorado University is excited to introduce Ian Higgins as the new Vice President for Finance and Administration. After working in state budgeting for over five years, Higgins was interested in transitioning into a role in higher education. With the Gunnison Valley providing incredible access for all of Higgins’ hobbies, Western was the perfect place to make that move.
Higgins graduated from Sacred Heart University in 2009 with a degree in accounting. He spent his early days after college working at a resort in Lake Tahoe and as an accountant at a ski resort in Vermont. Higgins has worked for the central budgeting offices at the Colorado Department of Personnel and Administration and then as the budget director for the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment since 2020.
A Man Wearing Many Hats
In his role as Vice President for Finance and Administration at Western, Higgins will oversee institutional research, human resources, information technology, accounting, and campus operations and establish goals, strategies, and objectives that support Western’s campus and students.
“I think it’s imperative that we do everything we can as a public institution to ensure that every student succeeds, and provide financial support to those who need it most,” said Higgins. “We need to continue to look for creative ways to work within our funding to provide a great educational experience that is affordable for all families.”
Fulfilling Western’s Mission
“Western is excited to have Ian join our senior leadership team in the role of CFO and Vice President for Finance and Administration,” said President Brad Baca. “In his short time here, he has already demonstrated a keen understanding and appreciation for Western’s role in Colorado’s higher education ecosystem and the important role our financial and human resources play in fulfilling our mission.”
About Western Colorado University:
Established in 1901, Western is a four-year public institution in Gunnison, Colo. that offers undergraduate and graduate programs in more than 100 areas of study. Our campus in the Rocky Mountains is home to more than 2,000 faculty and students, along with more than 1,600 students who are taking our courses remotely.
Author Credit: Kinlee Whitney
