Northern Vermont University hired a new dean of administration this year, Toby Stewart, the former controller of the University.
Stewart has replaced Sharron Scott, who has moved on to the chancellor’s office, where she now serves as chief financial and operating officer.
As dean of administration, Stewart oversees all financial aspects of the University to ensure the sustainability of the institution itself.
Allowing schools to open during the COVID-19 pandemic has proven challenging for everyone, including the new dean.
“The biggest challenge at hand for all of us is we want to be successful with the reintroduction of in-person operations of the University,” says Stewart.
“All of the details and ensuing financial implications of all of those things is probably the biggest challenge and making sure everything is lined up to support and be successful, as many of us are back on campus,” he added.
Stewart acknowledges the transition has been complicated for him, the students, faculty and staff.
“COVID has absolutely affected my job in every aspect,” he said. “It affects our operations, and anything that affects our operations has financial implications, so that’s part of the aspect that is my responsibility to work through and help guide and figure out how everything fits together. But on a positive side, I am excited to see zero positives from test results.”
Although COVID-19 has affected all at NVU, Stewart says he has found a way to be hopeful and optimistic despite ongoing uncertainties. “I look forward to my new challenge, which is at times very consuming, as it should be. But since accepting the job, I have a new sense of energy that has come along with it,” he says.
Stewart has been with NVU for 13 years. He was first hired as controller at Johnson State College, prior to its unification with Lyndon and the creation of NVU.
Throughout his career, Stewart says he has been able to build many beneficial relationships with staff and faculty at both campuses. “Currently, my interactions and dealings are at a different level than before,” he said. “I am interacting with different people, and it’s such a fresh perspective to situations. Before, I may not have been a decision-maker. Now, I can be a part of that process.”
Stewart also enjoys working directly with the new executive team. In recent years, his work was tangential to theirs—now he has been able to get to know them not only professionally but also personally.
“I have to say, I really enjoy working with them,” said Stewart. “It is just so nice to see Dr. Elaine Collins and her staff so hard working. I always knew they were. However, to see it first-hand is truly amazing. The load and responsibility they are willing to take on are awesome. I am really excited to be part of that team.”
Stewart says he knows students and their families rely on a responsible and responsive academic community and that stable finances are a crucial to the health of the University.
“From a student perspective, they want to know there is someone that’s bringing their concerns forward and is helping to guide important decisions in the best interest of the long-term finances of the University. That helps to bring peace of mind to the student as well,” he said.
“Like with a personal budget or a traditional business, we want our operations to continue for the long term, and that requires consideration about spending in the best interest of our staff, students and community.”