Elmhurst College has appointed Karen Kissel, an experienced financial and operations executive, to the role of vice president for finance and administration and chief financial officer.

With 20 years of experience in the corporate, private and nonprofit sectors, Kissel comes to Elmhurst from Governors State University, where as vice president for finance and administration she co-authored a strategic plan for the university, managed the construction of several significant campus facilities, and played a pivotal role in issuing and managing several debt-refinancing instruments.

Kissel’s work in the private sector includes positions with Anthonisen Financial Corporation, Havi Global Solutions and Trans Union Corporation. She has an MBA from the University of Notre Dame and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Saint Mary’s of Notre Dame.

“Karen will make an outstanding addition to Elmhurst’s leadership team,” said Larry Braskamp, interim president of Elmhurst College. “Not only does she have considerable experience in financial operations and higher education, she also demonstrates a strong commitment to the College’s mission and goals. I am delighted to welcome Karen to our team.”

At Elmhurst, Kissel will provide leadership over the College’s financial and human resources operations as well as campus maintenance and security. She will join the College on August 17.

“Over the past 10 years I have been an active member of a management team that has led a transformation at Governors State University,” Kissel said. “I look forward to making immediate and valuable contributions to Elmhurst College as well.”