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UOG Appoints Ricky Hernandez as VP of Administration and Finance

  //business-finance.news-articles.net/content/202 .. rnandez-as-vp-of-administration-and-finance.html
  Published in Business and Finance on Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at 22:18 GMT by Pacific Daily News
      Locales: Guam, UNITED STATES

Mangilao, Guam - February 19th, 2026 - The University of Guam (UOG) has announced the appointment of Ricky Hernandez as its new Vice President of Administration and Finance, effective immediately. The appointment, revealed by UOG President Michael M.C. Domingue on Tuesday, signals a strategic move by the university to address ongoing financial challenges and enhance operational efficiency.

Hernandez brings a wealth of experience to the role, stemming from his nearly six years as Executive Director of the Guam Integrated Athletics Association (GIAA). His tenure at GIAA involved overseeing all aspects of the organization's financial and administrative functions, including budget management, fundraising, and regulatory compliance. This experience is expected to be directly transferable to the complexities of managing UOG's finances.

Domingue emphasized the importance of Hernandez's skillset in a statement, stating, "We are pleased to welcome Ricky to UOG. His experience in financial management and administration will be invaluable as we continue our efforts to strengthen our financial management and operational efficiency." The President highlighted the critical need for robust financial leadership as UOG navigates a period of transition and evolving budgetary pressures.

Addressing the Financial Landscape at UOG

The university has been facing headwinds in recent years, primarily due to declining enrollment figures and the lingering economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Decreased student numbers translate directly into reduced tuition revenue, the lifeblood of many universities. This, coupled with pandemic-related disruptions and increased operational costs, has put a strain on UOG's financial resources.

UOG, as Guam's only accredited four-year degree-granting institution, plays a crucial role in the island's economic and social development. Maintaining its financial stability is therefore paramount, not just for the university itself, but for the future of Guam. The appointment of Hernandez is being viewed as a proactive step to address these concerns and secure the university's long-term viability.

Hernandez's Credentials and Vision

Hernandez is a well-educated professional, holding a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Hawaii and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Phoenix. This academic foundation, combined with his practical experience at GIAA, positions him well to tackle the financial intricacies of a large institution like UOG.

Speaking on his appointment, Hernandez expressed his enthusiasm for the role. "I am excited to join the UOG team and contribute to the university's mission," he said. "I am eager to work with the administration, faculty, staff, and students to address the challenges and opportunities facing UOG." His collaborative approach suggests a commitment to fostering a strong working relationship with all stakeholders.

Looking Ahead: UOG's Financial Improvement Plan

The appointment of Hernandez is not an isolated event, but rather part of a broader strategic initiative to overhaul UOG's financial and operational performance. Details of this plan are expected to be unveiled in the coming months, but sources within the university administration suggest a focus on several key areas:

• Revenue Diversification: Exploring new revenue streams beyond tuition, including increased grant funding, private donations, and potential partnerships with local businesses.
• Cost Optimization: Identifying areas where operational costs can be reduced without compromising academic quality or student services.
• Enrollment Growth Strategies: Implementing programs and initiatives designed to attract and retain students, reversing the trend of declining enrollment.
• Enhanced Financial Transparency: Improving the clarity and accessibility of financial information to stakeholders, fostering accountability and trust.
• Technology Integration: Exploring how modern financial technologies can streamline processes and improve reporting.

Hernandez is expected to play a pivotal role in developing and implementing these strategies. His experience in managing budgets and securing funding at GIAA will be particularly valuable in navigating the challenges ahead.

The UOG community will be watching closely to see how Hernandez's leadership impacts the university's financial health and its ability to fulfill its mission of providing accessible and high-quality education to the people of Guam. The success of this endeavor is vital not only for the university but for the future prosperity of the entire island.