Dan Lucas appointed Vice President of Finance and Administration at UWF

The University of West Florida has selected Daniel Lucas to be the next vice president of Finance and Administration following the retirement of Betsy Bowers, effective Nov. 1, contingent on UWF Board of Trustees approval. He will maintain his role as chief financial officer of the UWF Foundation.

"Dan has demonstrated exceptional leadership and financial expertise throughout his tenure at UWF," said UWF Interim President Manny Diaz Jr. "His deep knowledge of the University's operations and his commitment to transparency and accountability make him the ideal person to guide the Division of Finance and Administration into its next chapter."

The mission of the Division of Finance and Administration is to provide, develop and enhance essential internal services and operations of the University while advancing an environment and infrastructure that welcomes and encourages external strategic partnerships. As vice president, Lucas will oversee Business and Auxiliary Services, Controller's Office, Emergency Management, Environmental Health and Safety, Facilities Management, University Police, and Procurement and Contracts. The division is also responsible for oversight of UWF Business Enterprises, Inc., a direct support organization of the institution.

"Dan Lucas has been a valued member of the UWF Foundation community since June 2014 and brings a strong understanding of our operations, priorities and culture," said Bowers, outgoing vice president for the Division of Finance and Administration. "I'm confident he will continue to advance the important work we've accomplished together and lead the division with dedication and integrity. I'm grateful for the collaboration and support you've shown me throughout my tenure and know you'll extend that same professionalism and commitment to Dan as he steps into this leadership role."

As chief financial officer for the UWF Foundation, Lucas will also continue to oversee the Foundation's stewardship and acceptance of private gifts and resources from generous donors for the benefit of the University's mission and vision.

"I am honored to continue serving this great institution and to build upon the meaningful impact we have on our students, faculty, staff and the community we proudly serve," Lucas said. "I look forward to this new role and to working together as we embark on our next chapter of growth and excellence."

Lucas joined UWF in 2014, where he most recently served as the associate vice president for the Division of University Advancement and UWF Foundation CFO. Lucas earned a bachelor's degree in accountancy from Florida Atlantic University and is a certified public accountant in the state of Florida.

For more information about the Division of Finance and Administration at UWF, visit uwf.edu/finadmin.