URI appoints new VP of administration and finance

ABIGAIL RIDER has been appointed vice president of administration and finance at the University of Rhode Island, effective in early March. / COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND
ABIGAIL RIDER has been appointed vice president of administration and finance at the University of Rhode Island, effective in early March. / COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND

SOUTH KINGSTOWN – Abigail Rider has been appointed vice president of administration and finance at the University of Rhode Island, effective in early March, according to a statement by the school on Thursday.

Rider said it was an “honor and privilege” to join the URI community.

“Having lived, worked and raised my family in Rhode Island, I feel a special connection to URI’s mission and appreciate its key role in the state’s future,” she added.

Rider replaces Christina Valentino who left the position in September.

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In this position, Rider will report directly to URI President David M. Dooley and will oversee management and direction of the school’s business services, capital planning and projects, finance, purchasing, human resources, labor relations, public safety and facilities. She will also ensure the administration and operation of the school is streamlined, contemporary and efficient.

Dooley remarked that Rider’s plate will be full with multiple projects as the school celebrates its 125th anniversary. Among the projects are a new Welcome Center, a new residence hall for upperclassmen and a $150 million renovation of the school’s engineering facilities.

“With her expertise in banking, real estate development and project management, Vice President Rider is uniquely suited to serve the university during this crucial period of expansion and change,” he said.

Formerly assistant vice chancellor for planning and real estate at the University of California, Merced, Rider also served as chief real estate development officer at the school. From 2002 to 2007, she was the director of real estate and administrative services at Brown University. Her tenure there was followed by seven years at Yale University, from 2007 to 2014, as assistant vice president and director for university properties.

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