Lisa VanDeWeert

Lisa VanDeWeert
Vice President for Business and Finance and Chief Financial Officer

Lisa VanDeWeert (she/her/hers) joined Kalamazoo College as vice president for business and finance in February 2022. 

Roles and Responsibilities

Lisa oversees the business office, human resources, College bookstore and facilities management and has co-oversight of College dining services. She is responsible for planning, implementing, managing and reporting the College’s financial activities, including the College’s endowment. 

Professional Experience

Previously, Lisa served as vice president and chief financial officer (CFO) at Aquinas College. As Aquinas’ CFO and a member of the president’s leadership cabinet, Lisa was responsible for leading accounting, finance, information technology services, human resources, campus safety, physical plant, and operations such as conferencing and events and the campus bookstore.  

Prior to Aquinas, Lisa served as a certified public accountant at Rehmann, supervising and reviewing audits in a variety of industries, including higher education and nonprofit organizations. Before that, she spent 15 years providing audit services and leading teams at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Grand Rapids.  

Lisa is a member of the National Association of College and University Business Officers. She also serves as CFO group chair for Michigan Independent Colleges and Universities (MICU) and as a trustee on the MICU Workers’ Compensation Fund Board. She served on the executive committee and board of directors for Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids.  

Education

  • Bachelor of Science, accounting, State University of New York College at Oswego 

Why K?

“I chose K because of the commitment it has to educating students in a unique way through the K-Plan. I was also attracted to the culture present among faculty, staff and students as they go about their daily activities to support each other. I am able to blend my skills and talents with those of the capable leaders and team members at K. I am regularly encouraged and energized by their commitment to their colleagues and the College.” 

Life Outside of the College

“I have enjoyed learning about and exploring the Kalamazoo community and its culture. As a Grand Rapids resident for over 25 years, I love Michigan. It is similar to western New York State where I grew up, but better! My husband, Steve, and I enjoy camping, hiking and exploring all that Michigan has to offer in any season with our two college-aged children. I also enjoy gardening, crafts, reading and spending time with friends and family.”