

BLUEDEVIL FINANCE FOCUS
A NOTE FROM
Rachel Rachel
I’m pleased to share the March edition of Blue Devil Finance Focus, highlighting the continued progress, collaboration, and dedication across Duke Finance. This edition includes several important operational updates across our division, including key upgrades to the SuccessFactors recruitment and onboarding system, the expansion of Corporate Payroll’s appointment based support model, and improvements to the biweekly timecard approval process designed to streamline departmental workflows.
In this issue, we also highlight promotions within Treasury as part of our ongoing organizational alignment efforts, along with messages of appreciation submitted by colleagues to recognize the hard work, teamwork, and collaboration happening across our Finance units. I’m grateful for the ways you support one another and for the commitment you demonstrate to both operational excellence and service to the Duke community.
This issue also highlights just a few of the many people and moments that enrich our Duke Finance community—from new hires and role transitions to retirements, personal milestones, and recent gatherings like the Week of Cheer and our upcoming night at the Durham Bulls. These stories reflect the energy, engagement, and dedication that so many of you bring to your roles every day.
Thank you for all you do to strengthen and advance Duke Finance. I hope you enjoy this edition and take a moment to celebrate the accomplishments and connections reflected throughout these pages.
WARM REGARDS,
Rachel Satterfield
VP OF FINANCE & TREASURER

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAP Update
Treasury Update
Corporate Payroll Update
Biweekly Timecard Processing Changes
Wait, What? Nairobi, Kenya
New Hires, Transfers, & Retirements
Professional Development
Kudos
Personal Milestones
Week of Cheer Recap
Birthdays
Save the Date: Durham Bulls Game
Acknowledgements
SUCCESSFACTORS
By Janelle Tarpey
RECRUITMENT & ONBOARDING
Enhancements

On February 16, 2026, Duke implemented key upgrades to the SuccessFactors recruitment and onboarding system. These enhancements were designed to improve scalability, increase automation, and long term system support.
Aspartoftheupdate,newseparaterequisitiontemplateswere introducedtobettermeettheuniqueneedsoftheUniversity(including theSchoolofMedicineandSchoolofNursing)andtheHealthSystem. Inaddition,theSuccessFactorsOnboardingmodulewasupgradedto Onboarding2.0,whichwillbeusedbyboththeUniversityandHealth System.Onboarding2.0deliversamorestreamlinedandintuitive experiencewithanupdatedlookandfeel.Step-by-StepGuidesforthe newOnboarding2.0experienceareavailablehere: https://hr.duke.edu/managers/recruitment/successfactors/.
Newemployeeswhoarealreadyintheonboardingprocesswillcontinue inOnboarding1.0untilMarch31,2026.BeginningApril1,allnewhireswill usetheupdatedOnboarding2.0module.Anyin-processnewhireswho havenotcompletedonboardingbyMarch31willbeautomatically transitionedtoa"ReadyforOnboarding2.0"statusandwillfinishtheir onboardinginthenewsystem.
NoadditionalactionisrequiredfromendusersinSuccessFactors.
TREASURY UPDATES FROM

Laura McAndrew
Over the last couple months, through reorganization and strategic realignment, the Office of the Bursar and Cashiering, as well as the Office of Alumni & Development Records have new reporting lines.
Gail Bullock has been promoted to Assistant Treasurer - Student and Sponsored Research Billing & Receivables.

In addition to her current duties, Gail will now manage the Office of the Bursar and Cashiering. Gail has supervised the University and Sponosred Research receivables for
for many years, thus, adding the Office of the Bursar along with the student receivables component fits nicely within her area of expertise.
Greg Baker has been promoted to Assistant Treasurer - Treasury Operations and Alumni & Development Records.
Greg will add the Office of Alumni & Development Records to his portfolio, which aligns well with his current oversight

the Office of Endowment Administration.
Please congratulate Gail and Greg on their promotions and willingness to take on these important responsibilities within the division of Treasury and Cash Management.
Kassaundra Hester Kassaundra Hester

CUSTOMERSERVICE
Overthepastseveralyears,CorporatePayrollhas continueditscommitmenttoimprovingcustomer servicebystreamliningprocessesthatbetter supportDukeemployeesandstudents while reducingtheneedforin personvisits.Thanksto theseenhancements,in‑personcustomerservice traffichassignificantlydeclinedoverthelasttwo years.
Toensuremoreefficientandpersonalizedsupport,
Corporate Payroll has transitioned to an appointment‑based service model. All walk‑in customers are now required to schedule an appointment to address their payroll needs.
In‑PersonAppointmentHours
Wednesdays&Fridays
9:00a.m.–4:00p.m.
Officeclosedforlunchfrom12:00p.m.–1:00p.m.
VirtualAppointmentHours
Monday–Friday
9:00a.m.–4:00p.m.
Officeclosedforlunchfrom12:00p.m.–1:00p.m. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AdditionalSupportOptions
Forcustomerserviceinquiries,youcancontacttheCorporatePayroll Office:
Phone:(919)684‑2642
Online:SubmitaRequestthroughthe:PayrollIncident ManagementSystem
UPCOMING MODIFICATIONS TO BI-WEEKLY TIMECARD SUBMISSION PROCESS
from Corporate Payroll from Corporate Payroll
As part of our ongoing efforts to ensure accurate and timely payroll processing and to streamline procedures across all areas involved in timecard approval Corporate Payroll, in close coordination with the DUHS Talent Care Center, has implemented updates to the bi‑weekly timecard submission process effective March 1, 2026. These improvements are designed to reduce errors, limit manual intervention, and create a more efficient payroll experience for both employees and departments.
Previously, department supervisors timecard approval window was until 10:00 a.m. Supervisors were then provided a five‑hour window (10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.) to submit unapproved timecards and current period adjustments to Corporate Payroll for manual processing.
To enhance efficiency and significantly reduce the need for manual adjustments, the supervisor timecard approval window has now been extended through 1:00 p.m.
This expanded timeframe gives departments more opportunity to approve hours before the payroll deadline, helping decrease the number of timecards requiring intervention.
Departments should refer to the 2026 Biweekly Payroll Calendar for detailed pay period deadlines and planning.
By Brendan Murphy
WAIT… WHAT?Nairobi,Kenya? Nairobi,Kenya?
Did you know you have colleagues working in Nairobi, Kenya?
Francis Kithuku and Faith Muthui are key members of Duke’s extended finance team and play an essential role in supporting Duke’s international research portfolio. Francis has supported Duke since 2015, and Faith joined the team in 2023.

Together, Francis and Faith manage the accounting and financial operations for seven long‑term Duke research projects in Kenya.

These include the Duke Global Health Institute’s projects rooted in its long-standing partnership with Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, as well as Dr. Susan Alberts’ 40+ year Amboseli baboon research program in Amboseli National Park.
Their workload is substantial. Each month, they process and report on 1,500 financial transactions, supporting approximately $180,000 in expenses across more than 50 fund codes. Their timely month-end reporting enables grant managers to manage funds accurately and efficiently. In addition, Francis maintains vital relationships with Duke’s local partners tax advisors, the Employer of Record (EOR) firm, and numerous government offices to ensure full local compliance.
Beyond the numbers, Francis and Faith provide essential operational support for principal investigators, particularly for projects located in rural regions where logistical challenges are significant. Their in-country expertise greatly strengthens Duke’s ability to deliver seamless international research administration.

Francis Kithuku
Faith Muthul
Rachel and Francis in Kenya, Summer 2019
Their contributions go well beyond accounting. Among their many achievements, they have:
Procured and managed a compliant fleet of research vehicles
Implemented M-Pesa, Kenya’s widely used mobile payment system, to simplify field payments
Organized conferences and supported visiting research teams
Coordinated transportation and driver support for Duke travelers
Created a temporary community hub during COVID 19 where nda, Zambia, and other motely when they could not




FrancisandFaitharemorethanexceptionalfinance professionals theyaretrustedpartners,problem solvers,anddedicatedsupportersofDuke’smission abroad.
So,ifyoueverfindyourselfinNairobi,youalreadyhave twocolleagues andfriends readytowelcomeyou andshowyoutheirincrediblecountry.




Brendan, Francis & Rachel
Brendan & Francis
NEW HIRES, TRANSFERS, & RETIREMENTS in Duke Finance in Duke Finance

JOSEPH TOLNAY
Joseph Tolnay joined University Cashiering as our new Financial Management Analyst II in January 2026.
Joseph previously worked in Duke Anesthesiology and brings more than 13 years of experience in budgeting, financial operations, and administrative support. We are excited to have him on board and look forward to the expertise and perspective he will bring to the team.
ADAM PETERSON
Adam Peterson joined Duke as the Assistant Director of Corporate Risk Management in November 2025. Adam joins Duke after a decade as a corporate insurance broker, where he specialized in risk analysis and insurance placements for clients including universities and health systems.

MBEJA LOMOTEY

Mbeja Lomotey joined the Award Setup team in Treasury Billing Services as a Research Administration Manager. He brings extensive experience from work at multiple federal agencies, where he managed both pre- and post-award operations. We’re excited to have him on board!
EMILY LIU
In February, Emily Liu transferred out of Plant Accounting and was hired in Alumni & Development Records.

ALEX SHAW

On March 13, Alex Shaw with be leaving Plant Accounting and Duke to pursue a career elsewhere. We wish you all the best, Alex, in your next steps!
MICHELE MEECE
We would like to congratulate Michele Meece on her upcoming retirement at the end of March. Her hard work, positive attitude and commitment have been invaluable to the Duke community over her 24 years within Financial Services. She has most recently served as a key member of Plant Accounting’s space monitoring/tracking team. Thanks for everything Michele! We’ll miss you, but wish you the best going forward!

-Bradley Walker, Assistant Director, Plant Accounting

CHRIS THOMAS
“After 22 years at Duke, I am excited for Chris and wish him the very best as he heads into retirement. As a key member of ASM’s HR/Payroll team, his knowledge and commitment made a lasting difference to both the Administrative Systems Management (ASM) team and Duke community as a whole. Many thanks to him for all his contributions through the years.”
-Janelle Tarpey, Associate VP, Administrative Systems
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Reminders & Possibilities Reminders & Possibilities
ANNUALCPACERTIFICATERENEWAL
AllactiveNorthCarolinaCPAsarerequiredtorenewtheirlicense annuallybeforeJuly1.Aspartoftherenewal,licenseesmustindicatethe numberofCPEminutescompletedinthepreviouscalendaryearandpay theCPAlicenserenewalfeeof$60.00.
The annual certificate renewal period typically begins in mid-April and runs through June 30, with a 30-day grace period that ends July 31.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSES WITH LEARNING & ORGANIZATION DEVELOPMENT
MARCH
4* Self Leadership
9 Raising Accountability while Managing a Hybrid Team
18* Dimensions of Management
19 Notary Public
19* Module 1: Star Achievement Series™ (CEAP Designation)
23* Guide to Managing at Duke PLUS (for Health System Managers)
24* Crucial Conversations®: For Mastering Dialogue
31 Clifton Strengths®
APRIL
1 Feedback Fundamentals 8 Fundamentals of Coaching
9 Communicating with Diplomacy & Tact I
14* Guide to Managing at Duke (for Health System Managers)
16 Module 2: Star Achievement Series™ (CEAP Designation)
APRIL (cont’d)
20 Moving from Peer to Supervisor
22 Managing from the Middle
23 Conflict Resolution
23 Notary Public
28 Transformational Leadership
29* Emotionally Effective Leader
MAY
5* Guide to Managing at Duke (for University Managers)
14 Managing Multiple Priorities
20* Leader as Coach
21 Module 3: Star Achievement Series™ (CEAP Designation)
28 Communicating with Diplomacy & Tact II
*Indicates a multi-day course
“Congrats to the Financial Reporting &
Analysis (FP&A) team on completing the reporting process for Q2 School and Unit GAAP results, which were presented at the February Board of Trustees meeting.
I am so proud of the team for their commitment to excellence, collaboration and transparency.
Thank you Tanisa (Little) and Hannah (True)! Also, a big thanks to our colleagues in the Controller’s Office for their continued support and partnership in this effort – particularly Katie (Senko), Elizabeth (Carver), and Barbara (Hough)!”
Meghan Stark Associate Vice President Financial Planning & Analysis

A Sweet Engagement A Sweet Engagement

Lauren Seamster in Procurement & Supply Chain got engaged to her fiancé Garrett Wilson on January 25 . Congratulations to the happy couple and to their upcoming nuptials! th
Sweet Baby Boy Sweet Baby Boy
Dilla Scarbro in Procurement & Supply Chain welcomed a new great grandson, Zy’aire born on January 24th weighing 8 pounds. Welcome to the world, little one!


Thanks to those who participated in our first Week of Cheer in Duke Finance in December 2025.

Winners of Raffles/Votes
Duke men’s basketball tickets: Shirley Luan; Grocery store voucher: Wes Hartsoe; Gift Basket from Harry & David: Thavy Walters
Duke men’s basketball tickets: Shirley Luan; Grocery store voucher: Wes Hartsoe; Gift Basket from Harry & David: Thavy Walters


JANUARY
1st - Clif Flintom, Jr, Procurement & Supply Chain
4th - Pamela Greene, Procurement & Supply Chain
- Carolyn Reynolds, Procurement & Supply Chain
5th - Hannah True, Financial Planning & Analysis
6th - Thea Whitted, Post Award Financial Management
7th - Gloria Yearby, Procurement & Supply Chain
15th - Pete Carson, Procurement & Supply Chain
- Donna Neal, Procurement & Supply Chain
17th - Michael Duvoli, Procurement & Supply Chain
19th - Deirdre Hurteau, Administrative Systems Management
20th - Lauren Wang, Procurement & Supply Chain
23rd - Sonya Jefferson, Bursar’s Office
29th - Dia Williams, Bursar’s Office
FEBRUARY
3rd - Tonya Higgs, Procurement & Supply Chain
9th- Kirstie Jenkins, Procurement & Supply Chain
17th - Dustin Hutchison, Procurement & Supply Chain
20th - Michelle Pleasants, Procurement & Supply Chain
23rd - Jordan Clayton, Corporate Payroll
27th - Lauren Seamster, Procurement & Supply Chain
MARCH
17th - Wayne Staton, Accounts Payable
19th - Kari Lloyd, Procurement & Supply Chain
22nd - Erika King, Post Award Financial Management
23rd - Charles Gruer, Procurement & Supply Chain
26th - Stephanie Hick, Post Award Financial Management
27th - Michele Clark, Corporate Payroll
APRIL
1st - Melodie Ford, Controller’s Office
2nd - Tammy Aguilar, Accounts Payable
13th - Tara McQueen, Alumni & Development Records
22nd - Ginger Forsyth, Procurement & Supply Chain
26th - Jesse Alston, Procurement & Supply Chain
28th - Linda Homan-Martin, Post Award Administration


Wednesday|September9

Gamestartsat6:45pm
Joinusaswewatchthe urhamBullstakeontheNashvilleSo forafungameofbaseball.
Apicnicdinnerwillbeprovidedinthe partydecksonthethirdbaseline. That’sright! Shadeandfanstokeepuscoolintheheat!

Markyourcalendarsforafun,fallnightattheDBAP!
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
RACHEL SATTERFIELD
VP OF FINANCE & TREASURER
MANAGING EDITOR
MARCIA DE LA TORRIENTE
OFFICE OF THE VP OF FINANCE
CONTENT DIRECTOR
CASSIE LEWIS
OFFICE OF THE VP OF FINANCE
CONTENT EDITOR
MELODIE FORD CONTROLLERS DIVISION
CONTENT EDITOR
SUZETTE BILLINGS
PROCUREMENT & SUPPLY CHAIN
TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS
A heartfelt thank you to our contributors for submitting informaton to be shared. May everyone find the contents of this newsletter to be a connection point to each other for our Finance department.
WE HOPE YOU HAVE ENJOYED THIS EDITION OF THE NEWSLETTER!
PLEASE CONSIDER CONTRIBUTING CONTENT FOR OUR NEXT EDITION:
TeamworkToutsviaemailto:melodie.ford@duke.edu.
Optinforthebirthdaylistviaonlinesubmissionofthisform: https://bit.ly/FinanceBirthdayOptIn.
ShoutOutorKudosforanindividual viaemailto: suzette.billings@duke.edu.
ProfessionalorpersonalannouncementforWatercoolerConversations viaonlineform: https://duke.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV bpBoRwQkOdjl7bE.
Anyothergeneralcontent,pleaseemailto:cassie.lewis@duke.edu.
