The University of West Georgia has named a seasoned professional with 35 years of experience as the chief financial officer of the UWG Foundations and assistant vice president for university advancement.

Dan Stephens began as the foundations’ CFO on Jan. 2, bringing a wealth of experience in financial leadership, particularly in the higher education sector, to the university. Stephens joins UWG from Illinois State University, where he most recently served as vice president for finance and planning.

“I am honored and humbled to be selected as the new chief financial officer of the UWG Foundations,” Stephens said. “I want to express my sincere gratitude to the leadership of the university, as well as the UWG Foundations, for placing their trust in me. Joining the UWG Foundations at this transformational time is more than a professional opportunity; it is a chance to contribute to something truly meaningful in the lives of students, alumni, faculty, staff and the entire UWG community.”

As the foundations’ CFO, Stephens’ primary focus will be on ensuring financial stewardship that aligns with the university’s strategic plan to emphasize financial stability in service to its next-generation operating model.

“I look forward to collaborating with the university and foundations’ leadership teams, as well as forging new partnerships, both internal and external, to help ensure we successfully meet our collective goals and objectives,” he said.

Before joining Illinois State, Stephens served as the associate vice chancellor of finance for the University of North Texas System in Dallas.

Prior to working in Texas, Stephens held senior financial leadership roles with the University of Idaho and Jacksonville University in Florida, was the chief financial officer at Central Michigan University’s Off-Campus Division, and spent 15 years in audit, accounting and financial leadership roles for several private corporations. Stephens earned an MBA in finance from the University of North Florida and his undergraduate degree in accounting from Georgia Southern University.

“We are thrilled to have Dan joining us as CFO at such a pivotal moment for the University of West Georgia and our foundations,” said Dr. Meredith Brunen, CEO of UWG foundations and vice president for university advancement. “His extensive experience in the finances of higher education aligns seamlessly with our commitment to optimal stewardship of the private resources with which we are entrusted. With his leadership, we will continue to curate a first-choice university, ensuring a transformative, career-connected experience for our students.”