Education
- MBA, Texas A&M University
- BSBA University of Massachusetts Lowell
Biosketch
Joanne Yestramski is serving as interim vice chancellor for Finance & Operations. Prior to this appointment, she served as the interim Vice President for Finance and Administration for the University of Maine from November 2020 to October 2022 after having recently retired in December 2019 from her position as Senior Vice Chancellor Finance, Operations and Strategic Planning at the University of Massachusetts Lowell.
Joanne’s greatest passions and contributions during her nearly 45-year career in executive management positions include strategic planning, effectiveness and efficiency initiatives, and facilitating organizational change by maximizing the use of investments in technology. As an independent higher education consultant, she wishes to continue sharing her expertise to help meet the needs of universities and colleges, their communities and related stakeholders, while supporting higher education in providing affordable opportunities for students to reach their full potential.
With more nearly 45 years experience in higher education and corporate senior financial management, Joanne brings proven capabilities in financial management, operational excellence and informational technology services. During her 12 years at UMass Lowell, Joanne’s role encompassed strategic planning and managing both finance and operations, including accounting and budgeting, information technology, administrative services, facilities, human resources and campus safety. As a key member of the University’s executive management team, she had a major role in developing and implementing the University’s 2020 Strategic Plan. Results included 25% enrollment growth, significant improvement in student retention and quality, stronger graduation rates, improved facilities and strengthened reputation. Prior to her appointment at UMass Lowell, Joanne served for seven years as CFO and Treasurer of the University of Maine System. She has also served as Vice President for Finance and Treasurer at Bentley College and in similar capacities at the Providence Journal, Museum of Science in Boston, and BioTechnica International, Inc. Joanne started her career as a practicing Certified Public Accountant with KPMG Peat Marwick, where she worked in both the Houston and Boston offices.
Joanne has been a frequent presenter for the National Association of College and University Business Officers and its regional affiliated organization, EACUBO. She has received multiple awards for professional and community contributions, including the NACUBO Distinguished Business Officer Award, the EACUBO Distinguished Service Award, the Bishop McNamara Award for Community Service, and selection as a German Fulbright Educational Expert.
Joanne has also served on five New England Commission of Higher Education Accreditation Committees, including the University of Rhode Island, University of New Hampshire — Durham, University of Southern Maine, Lebanese American University and Eastern Connecticut State University. Current and prior Board of Directors service includes Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union, Merrimack Repertory Theatre, Osher Map Library Foundation, Woodie Wheaton Land Trust, the Eastern Association of College and University Business Officers (EACUBO), the Boston Consortium, and two private high schools.