Simpson College announces new Vice President for Business and Finance

Simpson College president Marsha Kelliher announced today that Dr. Philip Peña will join her cabinet as vice president for business and finance and the College’s chief financial officer. 

“We are thrilled to bring someone of Phil’s caliber and experience-level to campus,” Kelliher said. “He was, by far, the most qualified candidate and came to us with incredible references from past employers and colleagues around the country. He has accomplished a great deal and we are looking forward to working with him on opportunities we see at Simpson.”

With more than 25 years of financial, technological, administrative and management experience, Peña has worked in higher education as a CFO, chief information officer, treasurer and vice president of administration. Prior to entering higher education, Peña had a successful career as a business and technology consultant serving Fortune 500 and 1,000 clients in addition to numerous small- and medium-sized businesses. He has also taught business management and management information systems at both Purdue University and Sawyer College. In addition, he is a Higher Learning Commission Peer Reviewer working as an evaluator, consultant, multi-location reviewer and financial and non-financial panelist. 

“It is exciting to join Simpson College at this time in its history,” Peña said. “My skills, experience and education align perfectly with the goals and objectives President Kelliher and the Board of Trustees have set. Based on their vision and my abilities, I know I will be able to contribute even before I arrive on campus.”

Peña holds undergraduate degrees in marketing and computer science from Indiana State University, an MBA from Purdue University and a doctorate in management from University of Maryland University College.

Peña has served on a number of non-profit boards and is a past-president of the Union, Missouri Rotary Club. He is married with four adult children and two grandchildren.

He begins in the position Nov. 2 and will be involved in the final stages of the hiring process for the college controller, which is underway. 
 
Contact Information
Cathy Cole, Vice President for Marketing and Strategic Communication
Direct: 515-961-1595
Email: cathy.cole@simpson.edu