UW-Madison names new director of auxiliary operations analysis

A certified public accountant with 24 years of experience has been named the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s next director of auxiliary operations analysis, Darrell Bazzell, vice chancellor for administration, announced today (March 27).

Donna Halleran, finance and budget manager in Facilities Planning and Management at UW–Madison, will begin her new position on May 1.

“Donna has a long track record working in all areas of UW–Madison’s major auxiliary operations, and she is well-prepared to take on the challenges of the university’s budget process,” Bazzell says.

Halleran succeeds Bill Richner, who will retire in June. “Bill has led the office for many years, and we’re extremely grateful for his work,” adds Bazzell.

Since 1996, Halleran has been responsible for the management of all financial, budget, purchasing, travel and accounts-payable activities for Facilities Planning and Management, which has annual expenditures of $186 million. Previously, she was assistant director of Accounting Services at UW–Madison, where she managed a variety of financial functions for UW–Madison and the UW System. Halleran has a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from UW–Madison.

In her new role, Halleran will be responsible for university-wide oversight, direction and coordination of the budgetary, financial and planning activities of auxiliary units including University Housing, University Health Services, the Wisconsin Union and Intercollegiate Athletics. The office is involved in the annual budget process; financial reporting and analysis; short- and long-range planning, including collaboration with divisions and Facilities Planning and Management in capital budget planning; and consultation in audit matters.