Posted: May 2025

Michelle Locke

Interim Associate Vice President of Financial Services & Controller, Financial Services Dept. at Wichita State University

Volunteer Engagement Role or Committee:
Coordinator
Volunteer Start Date:
2022
Nominated By:
Nancy Combs, Lois Tatro, & Bob Swanson
Nomination Remarks:
"Michelle has done a great job stepping into the role of Controller this past year. She is very responsive and took over the duties quickly and efficiently."
"She’s been doing a great job as CACUBO Controller for the past two years and also assisted with the first-ever Kansas Drive-In workshop. She’d be a “newer” to CACUBO name and perhaps provide a different view than some of us old timers."

 

What inspired you to start volunteering with CACUBO?
I first started volunteering for CACUBO as a best practice reviewer. I was invited to participate by the best practices coordinator, and I have really enjoyed reading about the great things that institutions are doing to operate more efficiently and effectively and to better serve students. In 2023, I began serving as the Controller for CACUBO as well, working closely with Bob Swanson, our Treasurer, to manage the organization's finances.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your volunteer work? 
I enjoy providing financial reporting information to the board to help support effective governance and decision-making for a sustainable future for CACUBO.
What is a memorable experience or story from your time volunteering?
It's so fun to attend the presentations made by Best Practice winners at the Annual Conference. I love hearing their enthusiasm for the improvements they have implemented at their institutions. Being a Best Practice reviewer, I've had the chance to read their submissions in advance, and it's fun to feel like I have an insider's view.
What do you enjoy about working in higher education?
I enjoy the spirit of collaboration. We're always willing to share about our personal experiences and encourage one another within our peer groups.
What hobbies or interests do you have outside of volunteering? 
I enjoy hiking! I have hiked the Trans-Catalina Trail in California twice and it was an incredible experience both times. I also enjoy reading and spending time with my family.
Share with us a professional book or podcast recommendation.
  • "The 4 Dimensions of Culture and the Leaders Who Shape Them" by Greg Cagle
  • "Whatever It Is, I'm Against It: Resistance to Change in Higher Education" by Brian Rosenberg
  • "Reality-Based Leadership" by Cy Wakeman


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