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UOG Appoints Ricky Hernandez as New Vice President

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  Published in Business and Finance on Monday, January 12th 2026 at 2:37 GMT by Pacific Daily News

Mangilao, Guam - January 12th, 2026 - The University of Guam (UOG) has announced the appointment of Ricky Hernandez as its new Vice President of Administration and Finance. This key leadership change, formally approved by the UOG Board of Regents on October 25th, 2025, signals the university's commitment to bolstering its financial stability and operational effectiveness in a rapidly evolving higher education landscape.

President Michael M. Cruz lauded Hernandez's arrival, highlighting his "vast experience and expertise in financial management and administration" as "invaluable" for UOG's continued growth and progress. The Vice President of Administration and Finance is a critical role, overseeing a diverse portfolio of essential university functions. Hernandez's responsibilities encompass financial operations, meticulous budget management, strategic facilities planning and maintenance, human resources management, and the modernization and security of information technology infrastructure. This broad scope underscores the significant influence this position holds on the daily operations and long-term viability of the university.

Ricky Hernandez brings a considerable track record of leadership and achievement to UOG. Most recently, he served as the Executive Director of the Guam Integrated Athletics Association (GIAA) from 2017 to 2022. During his tenure at GIAA, Hernandez was instrumental in navigating complex budgetary challenges, securing funding for athletic programs, and modernizing administrative processes. While the specifics of his responsibilities at GIAA remain largely undisclosed in public records, his departure at the end of 2022 coincided with a period of reassessment within the organization, suggesting his departure was part of a broader restructuring initiative.

Prior to his involvement with GIAA, Hernandez cultivated a strong foundation in the private sector. He previously held various leadership roles at prominent Guam-based companies, including IT&E, a major telecommunications provider, and Pacific Islands Club, a renowned hospitality group. These experiences have equipped him with a valuable perspective on business operations, resource allocation, and strategic decision-making - all skills that are directly transferable to the complexities of managing a large institution like UOG. While details of his roles at IT&E and Pacific Islands Club are sparse, the selection of Hernandez indicates UOG is aiming to bring a business-minded approach to university management.

Hernandez expressed his enthusiasm for joining the UOG community, emphasizing his dedication to the university's mission and his collaborative approach. "I'm excited to join the UOG team and contribute to the university's mission," he stated. "I'm committed to working collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students to achieve our shared goals." This statement suggests an intention to build consensus and foster a supportive environment, which is particularly important given the challenges many higher education institutions are facing concerning funding, enrollment, and faculty retention.

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities for UOG

The appointment of Hernandez arrives at a crucial time for UOG. The university, like many institutions of higher education globally, is grappling with evolving financial pressures, demographic shifts, and the need to adapt to increasingly digital learning environments. Hernandez's expertise in financial management will be vital in addressing these challenges head-on. One immediate priority will likely be addressing the university's long-term financial sustainability, potentially involving initiatives to diversify funding sources and optimize existing resources. Furthermore, his experience in IT leadership positions him to spearhead efforts to modernize UOG's technological infrastructure and leverage technology to enhance the student experience and operational efficiency.

The collaborative approach Hernandez articulated aligns with a broader push within UOG to foster a more inclusive and responsive campus environment. His interaction with faculty, staff and students will be crucial to effectively implementing new strategies and garnering buy-in for significant changes across the university.