Vice Chancellor for Business and Finance (VCBF)

Jonathan C Watts

Jon Watts has served as vice chancellor for business and finance since 2016.

He joined UNK in 2010, holding the positions of director and assistant director of business services prior to his current appointment. Before joining UNK, he was manager of marketing, key accounts and public relations at Intralot Inc.

In his current position, Watts manages the university’s financial operations to support and promote academic excellence, fiscal responsibility and public accountability. Within the division are the offices of Business Services, Budget, Facilities Management and Planning, Finance, Human Resources, Emergency Management, Plambeck Early Childhood Education Center, Police and Parking and contracted providers that include Dining Services and the Antelope Bookstore. The vice chancellor advises the chancellor, oversees operations of the division and works with the university’s central administration to plan and carry out financial operations, set rates and fees and plan for construction and facilities maintenance.

A Certified Auxiliary Services Professional, Watts earned a bachelor’s degree in communication studies from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and master’s degree in management from Bellevue University.

CHI Health Good Samaritan Foundation, Kearney Catholic Schools Foundation, Museum of Nebraska Art Board of Directors, G.W. Frank Museum of History and Culture Advisory Board, University Village Facility Development Corporation and Yanney Heritage Park Foundation Board. Watts is a past member of the Kearney Public Schools Board of Education.

His civic and professional recognitions include the Sigma Phi Epsilon Faculty/Staff Award, National Residence Hall Honorary Faculty/Staff Award, UNK Employee Achievement Award, Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce Young Professional of the Year, Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Kearney Distinguished Alumni, Leadership Kearney, Leadership UNK, Leadership Nebraska and campaign co-chair for Buffalo County Community Partners.

(308) 865-8205

wattsjc@unk.edu