Hendrix College is pleased to announce the appointment of
Karen Tumlinson as vice president for finance & operations and chief financial
officer beginning in August. She brings extensive experience in higher
education financial management and operational leadership as well as a strong
record of strategic innovation that will support Hendrix’s mission and position
the College for continued success in the years ahead.
Joining Hendrix from Central College in Iowa, Tumlinson currently
serves as vice president of finance and administration and chief financial officer.
During her tenure, she led a comprehensive financial restructuring effort,
including the creation of the college’s first zero-based budget, the
implementation of a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, and the
introduction of a market-driven, open staffing model that reimagined
administrative services.
Additionally, Tumlinson has held key leadership roles at the
University of North Texas (UNT), Kansas Wesleyan University, and the University
of Arizona. At UNT, she played a pivotal role in launching financial and
technological innovations focused on online education and degree completion. At
Kansas Wesleyan University, she was responsible for the institution’s overall
financial health and administrative operations, introducing a new budgeting
system and streamlining the accounting office. Her experience at the University
of Arizona includes serving as assistant vice president for global initiatives
and leading the development of the university’s first multidisciplinary
Innovation Team.
"Karen Tumlinson’s strategic insight and deep
experience in higher education finance and operations make her the ideal leader
to join Hendrix as we build on our momentum and enter the next 150 years,” said
Hendrix College President Karen Petersen. “Her innovative spirit and proven
success in managing complex systems and driving institutional transformation
will be an asset to our team. I am thrilled to welcome her to Hendrix and look
forward to the strength and vision she brings to this pivotal role."
Hendrix College also extends its deep appreciation to
Bernadette Hinkle who has served as vice president for finance & operations
and chief financial officer over the last year. Hinkle came out of retirement
to support Hendrix during a critical period of transition in higher education,
and her steady leadership and financial stewardship have been instrumental in positioning
the College for a strong future. She departs with the College’s gratitude and
best wishes.
Tumlinson holds three associate degrees in accounting, business,
and computer programming, a bachelor’s degree in business, and a master’s in interdisciplinary
studies with concentrations in business and advanced data analytics. She has
also completed graduate coursework in accounting, law, and public administration.
“I am thrilled to be joining the forward-thinking team at
Hendrix College; a community of dedicated professionals committed to student
success through the lens of a rigorous liberal arts education. This foundation
not only prepares students for meaningful careers but also enriches their lives
in enduring ways. During my recent campus visit, I was deeply inspired by the
students I met—each of them spoke with genuine appreciation for the education
they are receiving and already recognize the lasting impact it will have on
their futures. I look forward to getting started!”
About
Hendrix College
Founded in
1876, Hendrix College is featured in Colleges That Change Lives: 40 Schools
That Will Change the Way You Think About Colleges and celebrated among the
country’s leading liberal arts colleges for academic quality, engaged learning
opportunities and career preparation, vibrant campus life, and value. The
Hendrix College Warriors compete in 21 NCAA Division III sports. Hendrix has
been affiliated with the United Methodist Church since 1884. Learn more at www.hendrix.edu.
“… Through
engagement that links the classroom with the world, and a commitment to
diversity, inclusion, justice, and sustainable living, the Hendrix community
inspires students to lead lives of accomplishment, integrity, service, and
joy.” –Hendrix College Statement of Purpose