The University of Southern Mississippi named Allyson Easterwood as Vice President for Finance and Administration on Nov. 12, effective Jan. 1, 2019. Easterwood is currently the Interim Vice President of Finance and Administration, a position she assumed in April 2017.

“During a relatively short period of time, Ms. Easterwood has helped navigate The University of Southern Mississippi through financial challenges to emerge as a stronger institution, positioned for greater financial stability,” University President Rodney D. Bennett said in a release from Southern Miss Now. “I am confident that her deep understanding of complex, contemporary financial strategies for higher education combined with her steadfast commitment to USM will enhance our success as we continue our work to become the model for public higher education across the country.”

Easterwood has 25 years of experience in higher education and has held administrative responsibilities since 2000. Before 2000, she worked for the Mississippi State Department of Audit in Higher Education.

“As an alumna and longtime employee, it is a privilege and honor to continue my commitment of dedicated service to USM,” said Easterwood in the Southern Miss Now release. “I am grateful and excited to work with President Bennett, the University’s executive leadership team, and our talented faculty and staff to help further the mission of the University and maintain our commitment to excellence.”

During her time at Southern Miss, Easterwood has overseen many initiatives, including refinancing to improve Southern Miss’s financial position, converting paper processes to electronic and facilitating the transit deal between Southern Miss and the City of Hattiesburg.

“As we continue on our path to become the model for public higher education across the country, I believe Ms. Easterwood’s leadership and wealth of experience will help facilitate our success. Please join me in congratulating her on this new appointment,” Bennett said, concluding the email.