The August, 2006 Department of the Month is the Accounts Payable Department.
On behalf of Staff Senate, we are pleased to recognize the work of a small but highly effective and vital team in the Accounts Payable department. Judy Urbanski and Paula Fuestman, under the leadership of Joan DeHaven, are responsible for processing all invoices for the campus and ensuring positive vendor relationships through accurate & timely payments and open communication.
They are also responsible for auditing all invoices for compliance with State of Nebraska, University, and IRS regulations. This includes educating those employees on campus who buy products, arrange services, and negotiate contracts so that they understand the regulations prior to committing the University to that purchase. The Accounts Payable staff is always willing to provide one-on-one assistance but also maintains a comprehensive website on policy & procedures to assist employees in finding answers on their own, day or night. They also provide a variety of trainings and presentations throughout the year focusing on areas that generate the most questions and concerns from UNK departments.
A goal of the Accounts Payable department has been to educate UNK departments on why certain documentation is required. This effort has increased trust and communication between the departments and the Accounts Payable staff. One department commented "We appreciate their expertise, their patience, and understanding". Another expressed, "They are knowledgeable about each others duties as to help anyone who calls. They represent the Accounts Payable department as courteous, helpful, smart UNK employees."
The highly talented staff provides expertise to University-wide teams in many areas including tax compliance and internal controls. The Accounts Payable department takes pride in their work and represents UNK in a professional and enthusiastic manner. As a result of their hard work, as well as the critical services they provide, we are delighted to recognize Accounts Payable as the August 2006 UNK Department of the Month!
Thank you to Department of the Month sponsors UNK Athletics and UNK Staff Senate.