COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (Aug. 24, 2005) — Tennessee Tech University’s Business Office has a new bursar in charge of collecting the institution’s tuition, fees and other charges.

She is Carolyn Gernt, who worked for 28 years as a programmer in TTU’s Information Technology Services and who has specialized since 1985 in providing technical support for the university’s financial resources system.

Gernt earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from TTU in 1988, and her new post will provide an opportunity for her to use both her technical and functional knowledge of finance.

“Although I’m still learning the duties and responsibilities that will be required in my new position, I believe my background and technical skills will help provide an easier transition for the Business Office and the campus as a whole — especially as it switches to the new Banner financial software system,” she said.

“Efficiency is always a top priority in any department, and being bursar will allow me as never before to serve as a liaison between the Business Office and Information Technology Services, which will hopefully save both offices time and resources,” Gernt continued.

In addition to collecting tuition, fees and other university funds, the bursar’s office — which includes cashiers, accounts receivable and loans receivable — processes and disburses all loans and excess aid to students.

Gernt says she’s excited about the new opportunity and looks forward to providing direct public service. “My ultimate goal is to anticipate and recognize needs and provide whatever service is necessary to help meet those needs — and that goes for students, coworkers and other departments alike,” she said.

--Tracey LeFevre
This information posted 26 August 2005