Unlock Southern Oregon University's Financial Potential with Dr. Carson Howell

Howell's Background and Achievements at Snow College

Currently serving as the Vice President for Finance and Administrative Services at 6,000-student Snow College in Utah, Dr. Carson Howell has been a driving force behind the institution's success. Since 2019, he has played a crucial role in leading the formulation of a new strategic plan in 2020, which led to the elimination of a structural financial deficit. His negotiations with the city of Ephraim and private owners of student housing facilities have also been instrumental in securing favorable agreements.

As the treasurer of Snow's foundation board, Howell has been instrumental in doubling the value of the endowment fund in the past five years. He has also personally collaborated with attorneys to secure the largest philanthropic gift in the college's history, demonstrating his ability to build strong partnerships and drive financial growth.

Organizational Impact at Snow College

Howell's organizational skills were on full display when he organized the Office of Institutional Effectiveness at Snow College. His deployment of an enterprise risk management process resulted in an insurance premium increase of just 2 percent, a significant achievement compared to 25 percent increases at other higher education institutions in Utah.

Snow College, a community college in Ephraim with an annual budget of about $60 million, offers a variety of associate degrees, certificates, and bachelor's degrees in music and software engineering. Howell's leadership has been crucial in ensuring the smooth operation and financial stability of the institution.

Transition to Southern Oregon University

Dr. Howell is excited to join the leadership team at Southern Oregon University, a institution with an annual budget of about $91 million and more than 5,000 students. He will succeed Dr. Peter Angstadt as the Vice President for Finance and Administration, bringing his extensive experience and expertise to the university.

SOU's Vice President for Finance and Administration is responsible for the overall strategic planning and financial leadership of the university. Howell will oversee a broad range of campus departments and operations, including Business Services, Budget and Planning, Contracts and Risk Management, Human Resources, Facilities Management and Planning, Campus Public Safety, Information Technology and Sustainability. He will play an important role in institutional planning and positioning, building community partnerships, and advancing SOU's presence in the region, state, and nation.

Howell and his family are looking forward to their move to Ashland and experiencing the beauty that Southern Oregon has to offer. They are eager to be part of the caring community and the SOU family.

Educational Background and Qualifications

Howell received his bachelor's degree in biology from Boise State University, his master's degree in public administration from Syracuse University, and his doctorate in public policy and administration from Boise State. His diverse educational background has equipped him with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in his new role.