Christy Anderson Appointed Assistant Dean for Finance for the University of Kentucky College of Public Health

The University of Kentucky College of Public Health (CPH) recently announced Christy Anderson, MBA, has been named Assistant Dean for Finance. In this role, Anderson serves as the chief financial officer, steward, and strategist for the College, driving revenue growth and ensuring operational efficiency and sustainability. Additionally, she advises the Dean on all financial matters and works to create a financial structure that aligns with the College’s strategic objectives.

Anderson said she is dedicated to promoting a transparent and collaborative environment where effective financial decisions contribute to the continued success and expansion of the College’s programs and initiatives.

“I am honored to be the Assistant Dean for Finance and lead a team of very talented and capable staff. I strive to create an atmosphere of transparency and teamwork,” Anderson said. “My goal is to create a budget strategy that aligns funding with function to support the strategic objectives of the College. The structure and decision-making should be clear and sustainable.”

Heather M. Bush, PhD, Dean of the College, expressed her enthusiasm for Anderson’s appointment, highlighting her extensive experience and leadership qualities.

“We are thrilled to welcome Christy to the College of Public Health,” Bush said. “With her 20-year history at the university and deep financial expertise, she is an invaluable asset as we enter a new phase of growth. Christy brings not only a strong financial background but also an optimistic and creative problem-solving approach that will inspire our team. She will play a key role in building a strong financial foundation, strategically leveraging resources, and ensuring we maintain the highest standards of compliance. Her leadership will be instrumental in advancing public health in Kentucky and beyond.”

Anderson joined CPH in July 2024, bringing with her 20 years of experience at the University. Her career began at the College of Medicine, where she held roles such as Department Administrator in the Physiology Department, Post Award Director for Sponsored Projects, Assistant Dean for Administration, and Associate Dean for Administration.

In 2018, she became Chief Financial Officer for the Gatton College of Business and Administration, overseeing financial operations and developing growth strategies. In these roles, Anderson gained extensive expertise in managing budgets, driving operational efficiency, and aligning financial resources with institutional goals.

Anderson’s leadership approach has been shaped by the guidance of colleagues throughout her career. Among them, Dr. Michael Reid, department chair during her early career in the Physiology Department, taught her valuable lessons about the importance of tradition, building relationships, and focusing on what truly matters.

“Mike taught me to see people as people first...be supportive and kind, tell them when they’ve done a good job, be honest even when it’s hard, and always know your purpose,” she said.

Reflecting on her career journey, Anderson credited a group of exceptional mentors and colleagues she worked with during her time in the College of Medicine, describing them as instrumental to her growth.

“When I was hired into the College of Medicine, I had the great fortune to work with an amazing group of Basic Science and Center Administrators—Kelley Secrest, Tonya (Simon) Knox, Julie Poole, Darin Cecil, Zel (Frye) Madison, Mary Fern Waechter, Beverly Baesler, Karen Dodridge, Colleen Haney, Beth Yost, Elisha Maxon, Tammy Minor, and our very own Paula Arnett. We learned from one another and shared our knowledge and experience,” Anderson said.

Among these mentors, Paula Arnett played a particularly impactful role in Anderson’s career.

“Paula and I were both pursuing advanced degrees while managing our respective departments. We remained in contact and would call on one another from time to time. It was Paula who brought this opportunity to my attention and encouraged me to apply. I am eternally grateful to her as well as all the administrators who have supported me over the years. I would not be where I am without them,” she said.

Anderson said she aims to empower CPH faculty, staff, and students to focus on initiatives that make a meaningful impact in public health.

“I’d like to think of myself as the technician behind the scenes during a production,” Anderson said, emphasizing her commitment to providing the support and resources needed for others to excel. “I’m at a stage in my career where I not only want to do good work, but I want to contribute to something greater. You feel that from everyone in the College of Public Health. There is a culture of service and giving back to the community.”