Join us in welcoming Vicki Nichol as our new controller!
In this role, Vicki is responsible for the direction and oversight of the Campus Controller’s Office, with primary responsibility for all financial reporting. Vicki has a deep breadth and depth of experience in research administration, risk management and business operations. Vicki is optimistic, inclusive, has a calm demeanor and has demonstrated her ability to work well with people across campus to get the work done. In addition to budget and accounting expertise, she brings extensive experience developing and guiding high functioning teams, and leading institutions through change.
Vicki comes to us from the Colorado School of Mines, where she has held leadership positions spanning budget, accounting, research administration, risk management, procurement and other administrative fields. She holds a CPA, a Bachelor’s and a Master’s of Science in Accounting, and a Master’s in Business Administration. Prior to Mines, Vicki worked at our Anschutz campus and as the state’s Higher Education Fiscal Coordinator.
Quick Q&A with Vicki:
Can you tell us more about your history in higher education?
I started in higher education in 1988 at the University of Colorado Health Sciences center when it was located at Colorado and 9th. I love the mission of higher education and am very lucky I have been able to support that mission for over 30 years.
What are you most looking forward to now that you’re at CU Boulder?
I am looking forward to supporting all of the diverse activities and initiatives at Boulder and being part of a strong team. CU has a far reach and a broad global impact. I look forward to learning about all of it and how I can make a positive impact.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I am an avid hiker, backpacker and world trekker. I have trekked in the Alps, Andes, Himalayas and climbed Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. I love watching boxing, particularly welterweight and I love to garden and read.
Can you tell us more about one of your adventures?
One of my favorite adventures spanned 12 years of section-hiking/backpacking the Colorado Trail with many friends along the way. It was a great way to explore the rich history and landscape of Colorado. I learned many things including: hip belts are imperative on a backpack; marmots eat everything; duct tape fixes everything; moose are curious; and, go ahead and hang your food high in a tree, the bears will take it anyway! I also learned skills in innovation, resiliency and empathy. It was an amazing 12 years.