Harris Brings Decades of Leadership Ability to Piedmont’s Chief Financial Role

Piedmont University has welcomed Kristie Harris as the new Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer. With more than two decades of leadership experience in higher education finance and human resources, Harris brings both strategic expertise and a deep commitment to students. In this Q&A, she shares what drew her to Piedmont, her philosophy on financial stewardship, and her vision for supporting the university’s continued growth and success.

What drew you to Piedmont University, and what excites you most about joining this community?
What drew me to Piedmont University was its strong sense of community and its commitment to transforming students’ lives through education. Having spent more than 20 years working in higher education finance in Florida, I’ve seen firsthand how sound financial stewardship directly supports the student experience and strengthens an institution’s ability to fulfill its mission. I look forward to helping build on the university’s momentum and ensuring that our students have every opportunity to thrive here at Piedmont.

You’ve held leadership roles in both finance and human resources. How has that breadth of experience shaped your approach to university leadership?

My experience in both finance and human resources has given me a well-rounded perspective on university leadership. Finance taught me the importance of accountability, strategic planning, and making decisions that ensure long-term stability and growth. Human resources, on the other hand, reminded me daily that people are at the heart of the institution – our faculty, staff, and students are the ones who bring the mission to life.

You already know Piedmont University President Marshall Criser and AVP of Public Affairs Renee’ Fargason from previous work. How do those relationships help you hit the ground running?

Having the opportunity to work with President Criser and Renee Fargason in the past is a tremendous advantage as I begin my journey here at Piedmont. We’ve already built a foundation of trust and collaboration, which makes it easier to hit the ground running. I know firsthand their commitment to students, their passion for higher education, and their ability to bring people together to achieve meaningful goals.

What’s your overall philosophy when it comes to managing a university’s financial operations, especially during times of change or uncertainty?

My philosophy is grounded in three key principles: integrity, transparency, and accountability. During times of change and uncertainty, these principles become even more important. By approaching challenges with integrity, communicating openly, and holding ourselves accountable, we build trust and create a foundation for stability.

How do you balance fiscal responsibility with supporting growth, innovation, and student success?

It begins with a clear focus on students. Every financial decision should support their success, whether that’s through academic programs, campus resources, or new opportunities for engagement and learning. Fiscal responsibility provides the foundation by protecting the university’s long-term stability and ensuring data-driven decisions. At the same time, we must be strategic in investing in areas that support innovation and growth for our students. That means identifying priorities that strengthen Piedmont’s future and finding creative ways to maximize our return on investment.

What lessons have you learned from your time working in public institutions that you’ll bring to Piedmont?

One of the most important lessons is the value of stewardship. Public institutions are entrusted with taxpayer dollars, which requires the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability. That experience shaped my approach to always be mindful that every resource must be managed responsibly and in support of students. Another key lesson is adaptability. Public institutions often operate under tight restraints and shifting regulations, so you become skilled at finding creative solutions, building consensus, and making the most of limited resources.

What are your first priorities as you settle into this role at Piedmont?

My first priority is to listen and learn. Every university has its own culture, traditions, and opportunities, and I want to understand Piedmont from the perspectives of students, faculty, staff, and trustees. My goal is to build long-lasting relationships and trust, establish a clear understanding of our financial climate, and position Piedmont for a strong and sustainable future.

Do you plan to engage faculty, staff, and students in conversations about the university’s financial health and goals? If yes, how so?

Yes. Absolutely. Faculty, staff, and students deserve to understand where we are, where we’re headed, and how financial decisions connect to Piedmont’s strategic vision. I plan to create open lines of communication through regular updates, presentations, and opportunities for dialogue. That may include department-level meetings, workshops, or attending faculty and staff assemblies.

On a personal note, what do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. That’s always my go-to place for peace and enjoyment. I also love the outdoors, especially with the cooler weather in the Georgia mountains. Coming from Florida, I’ve always appreciated being near the water, and I’m excited to explore the beautiful scenery and outdoor activities that north Georgia has to offer.