Ripon College names new vice president for finance

After a national search during the fall semester, Tom Ponto has been selected as the new vice president for finance for Ripon College. He began his duties Feb. 3.

As vice president for finance, Ponto supervises all business and financial functions of the college, and is the primary administrative liaison to the Board of Trustees on matters related to finance, investment, construction contracts and approval, risk management and audit. In addition, he will develop and oversee the successful implementation of annual budgets and long-term financial plans, including the college’s financial models and forecasts that anticipate risks and opportunities.

Ponto previously worked at Kalamazoo College in Michigan where he served for more than three decades in a variety of capacities including: controller, director of business and finance, and vice president of business and finance. His responsibilities at Kalamazoo included financial affairs, human resources, operation of plant, and coordination of new construction/major renovation projects.

“I am honored to join the Ripon College community,” Ponto says. “I have long admired Ripon College for its commitment to excellence and the transformative experience it offers to each one of its students. I look forward to working with Ripon’s dynamic Board of Trustees, administrative leadership team, faculty and staff to move Ripon to an even higher level.”

Zach P. Messitte, Ripon College president, adds, “I am pleased to welcome Tom Ponto as Ripon College’s new vice president for finance. With his background, dedication and experience with the liberal arts, he will be a great asset as the college moves forward.

“I also want to thank Lori Schulze for her excellent work as the Interim vice president for finance,” Messitte said. “I am very pleased that Lori will resume her job as the college’s controller and look forward to working closely with her in the months and years ahead.”

A native of Neenah, Wis., Ponto graduated with a degree in business from St. Norbert College in De Pere and received his master of business administration degree from Marquette University in Milwaukee.

Posted February 11, 2014 in Uncategorized.

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