Dr. Gerald Williams moved over from Southern University, New Orleans, to become Dillard’s new chief financial officer Sept. 15, and University President Marvalene Hughes says she is pleased to have Williams as a part of her team.

Williams said his biggest challenge so far as been to orchestrate a budget cutback of $1.4 million while becoming familiar with campus policies and procedures. He added that his No. 1 goal is to improve student services and to improve technology on campus.

Williams leads a staff of 11 and manages all financial affairs at Dillard University and ensures compliance with all regulatory agencies. Prior to his appointment, E.J. Phillips served as interim and auditor through June 2008.

Williams, who worked with SUNO from 1990-2008, most recently was vice chancellor for administration and finance. Over the years, he also served as director, assistant director, counselor, comptroller, executive assistant to the chancellor. He has experience in cost accounting, cost analysis, internal agency auditing, institution, operations management and financial management.

Williams received a bachelor’s degree in accounting from SUNO in 1971 and a master’s degree management at Troy State University. In 1999, he received a DBA (accounting) at Nova Southeastern University.

Williams started out as a secondary school math teacher after graduation in 1971 and then moved on to accounting and business law classes at SUNO. Williams was a cost analysis for Ford Motor Co. from 1978-1983. He also served the vice president at Corpus Christi Parish Credit Union.

Williams, who said he became a big supporter of Dillard through his children’s participation in the Dillard Science Academy, said he believes the Dillard position is the perfect match for his qualifications.

Williams said restructuring how services are provided requires both the support of the staff and student body, and he encourages everyone to help out.