Jackson State University President Carolyn W. Meyers announces that Dana A. Brown will serve as the University’s interim Chief Financial Officer. She will oversee a range of administrative and business operations that support the University’s academic mission. Brown has more than 25 years of experience in finance, accounting, budgeting, investment and internal controls.
“Dana has proven to be an outstanding contributor to the fiscal strength of this institution, and I welcome here to her new role,” Meyers said.
Brown, who assumed her new role Aug. 1, said she will focus on creating a culture of fiscal understanding. She succeeds Michael Thomas, who served more than five years in the role.
“I look forward to being consequential to the future of the University, and I’m excited to be a member of the Executive Cabinet. I believe President Meyers is leading us in a direction that will ensure the viability of the University for generations to come,” Brown said.
Before joining JSU, Brown spent 7½ years in private-sector operational positions handling financial statements, budgeting, internal auditing and contract negotiations. During her 19-year career with JSU, she has been instrumental in identifying key operational metrics to measure the current progress of the University’s financial strength. She has worked to grow the University’s endowment over a 10-year span. In addition, she has served on several teams to improve and expand housing capacity, as well as academic, technology and student facilities.
The JSU alum has a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Finance and Masters of Business Administration. Also, she has earned certificate designations in treasury, cash and financial management.
Brown has been a National Association of College and University Business Officer (NACUBO) presenter and served on task forces for The Treasury Institute of Higher Education.