The University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) Finance Office is a crucial department responsible for managing the university’s financial resources and ensuring fiscal responsibility across all its operations. Situated within the Business and Finance division, the Finance Office oversees a broad spectrum of functions, from budgeting and accounting to procurement and payroll.
Budgeting is a central component of the Finance Office’s activities. They collaborate with various departments and units across UNK to develop and monitor the university’s annual budget. This involves forecasting revenues, allocating resources strategically, and tracking expenditures to ensure alignment with the university’s strategic goals and priorities. The Finance Office plays a key role in ensuring that the budget is balanced and adheres to all relevant regulations and policies.
Accounting is another vital function handled by the Finance Office. They maintain accurate and complete financial records, ensuring compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and other regulatory requirements. This includes processing financial transactions, preparing financial statements, and managing the university’s general ledger. The Finance Office also conducts internal audits to ensure the integrity and accuracy of financial data.
Procurement, or purchasing, is also under the purview of the Finance Office. They are responsible for overseeing the university’s procurement processes, ensuring that goods and services are acquired efficiently and cost-effectively. This includes managing vendor relationships, negotiating contracts, and ensuring compliance with purchasing policies and procedures. The Finance Office strives to obtain the best value for the university while adhering to ethical and legal standards.
Payroll services are also managed by the Finance Office. They are responsible for processing employee paychecks, managing payroll taxes, and ensuring compliance with labor laws and regulations. This includes accurately calculating wages, deductions, and withholdings, as well as distributing paychecks in a timely manner. The Finance Office also provides support to employees regarding payroll-related inquiries.
Beyond these core functions, the Finance Office also provides guidance and support to departments and units across UNK on financial matters. They offer training and resources to help employees understand financial policies and procedures, and they are available to answer questions and provide assistance as needed. The Finance Office plays a critical role in promoting financial literacy and accountability throughout the university.
In summary, the University of Nebraska at Kearney Finance Office is a vital department that ensures the sound financial management of the university. Through its budgeting, accounting, procurement, and payroll functions, the Finance Office supports the university’s mission of providing high-quality education and research opportunities to its students and the community.