Name: Jennifer Washington
Title/Department: Associate Operations Director, University Cashier Office
F&O start date: December 2023
Years at Carolina: 11 years
Professional Background: Professionally, I have had the privilege of working at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for over 11 years, complemented by five previous years at UNC Wilmington. In my journey here, I have developed a robust skill set in operations management, financial processes and team collaboration. My roles have spanned both academic and operational areas, providing me with a well-rounded perspective on University functions. I excel in problem-solving and thrive in developing effective solutions to enhance operational efficiency. My passion for working with staff and fostering collaborative relationships has been instrumental in achieving shared goals and improving processes. I believe that effective communication and a team-oriented approach are key to driving success in any organization.
Education: My educational journey has been both fulfilling and transformative. I earned my B.A. in history from UNC Wilmington, which instilled in me a deep appreciation for critical thinking and analysis. Following that, I pursued an MBA with a focus on leadership studies at Webster University, growing my skills in strategic decision-making and organizational management. Currently, I am working towards a Doctorate in Higher Education and Leadership at UNC Wilmington, with an expected graduation in 2026. This program is enriching my understanding of higher education systems and leadership practices, and it reflects my commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. I also have certificates in Project Management and DEI.
What your job entails: As the associate operations director, I’m passionate about collaborating with staff across campus and working with our external vendors. My role involves overseeing key university processes such as student billing, department deposits and payments. Internally, I assist the University bursar with business operations, human resources and project management. I genuinely enjoy problem-solving and thrive on the challenges that come with helping my team navigate these processes effectively.
What is exciting you about your job right now: What excites me most about my job right now is the opportunity to learn about the backend operations that keep our University functioning seamlessly. Having previously worked in front-facing academic roles, I truly appreciate the hard work that often goes unnoticed but is essential for creating a positive experience for faculty, students and parents. My colleagues in Finance and Operations are dedicated to this mission, and I’m inspired by their commitment to making Carolina a better place for everyone.
What is something we may not know about you: On a personal note, you might find it interesting that I have a twin sister who also works in a finance area for the Federal Reserve. Additionally, I served in the United States Navy, which allowed me to live overseas for nearly five years – an experience that ignited my love for travel.