DECATUR, Ill. – has announced two leadership promotions within the University’s President’s Leadership Team, naming Amy Besser '94 as Vice President of Finance and Operations and Kylee Roney as Vice President of Marketing & Communications.
The appointments reflect 鶹Լ’s continued focus on strategic leadership and institutional momentum while strengthening the University’s operational and communications initiatives.
“As we continue to advance 鶹Լ’s institutional priorities and vision, these appointments recognize two individuals who bring deep institutional knowledge and a shared commitment to the University’s mission,” said 鶹Լ President Dr. Dean Pribbenow. “Both Amy and Kylee have demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication to 鶹Լ, and I am confident they will continue to help guide the University forward.”
Besser began serving as Vice President of Finance and Operations on Aug. 1, 2025. In this role, she provides leadership in strengthening operational efficiency across the University, ensuring compliance with required audits, and supporting key areas, including Human Resources and Financial Aid. She also works closely with the Business Office team to prepare the University’s annual financial audit and collaborates with senior leadership on the development of 鶹Լ’s annual budget for approval by the Board of Trustees.
A proud 鶹Լ alumna, Besser graduated in 1994 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish. Her experience overseeing facilities, utilities and operational areas, along with her work supporting revenue-generating initiatives and pricing strategies in manufacturing industries, provides a valuable perspective as the University aligns its financial planning with institutional priorities.
“Amy is known for her collaborative leadership style and strong attention to detail,” Pribbenow said. “Her ability to support informed decision-making through clear financial reporting and analysis will continue to help position 鶹Լ for long-term stability and success.”
Kylee Roney was appointed Vice President of Marketing & Communications effective Feb. 1, 2026. In her role, Roney leads 鶹Լ’s strategic marketing, communications and public relations efforts, helping strengthen the University’s visibility, reputation and impact.
Roney has served 鶹Լ since 2015, most recently as Executive Director of Marketing & Communications. During her tenure, she has helped guide the University’s integrated marketing strategy while collaborating with departments across campus to support key institutional priorities, including enrollment, fundraising, crisis and emergency communications, community engagement, strategic planning and technology initiatives.
“As Vice President, Kylee will continue to strengthen the way 鶹Լ tells its story,” Pribbenow said. “Her thoughtful leadership, collaborative spirit and data-informed approach to marketing and communications will help ensure our messaging reflects 鶹Լ’s values and vision while driving meaningful results.”
Pribbenow added that Roney has played an important role in numerous university-wide initiatives and brings a leadership approach that fosters trust and shared purpose across campus.
“I am grateful for the continued service that Amy and Kylee will provide to 鶹Լ University and am excited for the leadership and momentum they will bring to their roles,” Pribbenow said.
