Finance and Administration provides service to the campus community in all aspects of the University’s financial affairs, including financial planning, policy and analysis, financial records and reporting, budget development, cash management, risk management, management of the audit process, and the development and implementation of a comprehensive technology plan. Additionally, Human Resources, Facilities Management and University Police fall under the Finance and Administration umbrella, providing services that are essential to the function of the University.

Meet Interim Vice President Beni Ortiz

Beni Ortiz joined Northeastern in January 2018 as the Director of Financial Services/Controller, overseeing General Accounting, Accounts Payable, Grants Accounting, and Tax Compliance. Ortiz and her team ensured accountability for the University's finances and assets, developed fiscal policies, maintained financial systems, ensured regulatory compliance, managed investments and banking activities, coordinated audits, and issued annual financial reports.

In May, 2021, Ortiz transitioned into the University's Finance & Administration office as the Executive Director of Finance & Administration to oversee the activities of Procurement, Student Payment Services and Controller’s office. In April 2024, Beni stepped in as the Interim Vice President of Finance & Administration. Now, As Interim Vice President of Finance & Administration, Ortiz provides strategic direction and leadership for departments supporting daily operations across the entire University.

Experience

Beni Ortiz has served as The Controller, the Executive Director of Finance & Administration, and now the Interim Vice President of Finance & Administration at Northeastern Illinois University, leading finance and administrative units and providing strategic leadership as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. Her comprehensive experience includes leading business services, facilities management, university budgeting, technology services, procurement, and auxiliary services.

In addition to her roles at NEIU, Beni has worked at notable nonprofit organizations such as Heartland Alliance International, where she supervised international accounting activities and ensured compliance with international financial reporting standards. She also contributed to financial management at Artis-Naples, overseeing financial statements, tax filings, and audit processes.

Beni has significant experience in both the private sector and higher education. She has held roles at ASG Technologies and Grant Thornton LLP, managing accounting operations and payroll functions. Her expertise spans project management, strategic planning, and implementing technology systems to enhance financial processes.

Ortiz is also a member of the Illinois Public Higher Education Cooperative Board, contributing to statewide higher education initiatives and policies.

Education

Beni Ortiz earned a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting from Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago and later became a Certified Public Accountant in the State of Illinois.

Finance and Administration Annual reports

Finance and Administration in the News