Tracy A. Wagner has served private higher education 32 years with over 28 of those as a chief financial officer.  She served 15 years at the University of Dubuque, 12 as its VP of Finance and Auxiliary Services; 2 years at Knox College as VP for Finance and Treasurer and 15 years as Ringling College of Art and Design’s VP for Finance and Administration.  In June of 2021, she began serving at its Executive Vice President, supporting the Office of the President by focusing on strategic planning, campus master planning, and board engagement for the College.

Tracy has developed expertise in a number of areas as a member of the senior administration and in support of the Facilities, Finance, Investments, and Audit committees of the Board of Trustees.  She has negotiated alternate financing strategies utilizing local and national banks as well as higher education financing authorities to provide institutions appropriate funding including letters and lines of credit, bond issues and swap agreements.  Facilities planning is also a notable strength as she provided direction for the development of campus master plans on two campuses.  Under Tracy’s leadership and work with city planning and zoning departments, numerous renovations have been accomplished along with new construction for residential, academic, athletic and library facilities.

Prior to entering private higher education, Tracy worked for KMPG Peat Marwick in the Middle Market division.  In this role, she provided accounting, auditing, advisory and tax services to SEC and private clients.

Tracy has a BA in Economics and Accounting from the University of Northern Iowa, a MBA from the University of Dubuque, and a PhD in Leadership and Education/Specialization in Higher Education Administration from Barry University.  As an adjunct professor, she has taught microeconomics.

Volunteer service to the community has included service on the Boards of the Dubuque Chamber of Commerce, Finley Hospital, Church of the Nativity, and Edison Academic Center.  Tracy has been an active participant in a number of organizations including Future Business Leaders of America’s Professional Division, Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Iowa Society of Certified Public Accountants, the National Association of College and University Business Officers, the Society of College and University Planners, and the Association of Higher Education Facilities Officers.  She is also a member of the International Women’s Forum.