Winona State University has appointed Ted Butler as its next Vice President for Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer, effective July 6, 2026.
Butler brings more than two decades of progressively responsible financial leadership experience in higher education. He currently serves as Chief Financial Officer for the University of Minnesota College of Food, Agricultural, and Natural Resource Sciences and the Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station, where he provides strategic direction for financial operations, resource planning, and fiscal stewardship across complex academic and research units.
“As Winona State navigates a challenging higher education funding environment, we are fortunate to welcome a leader who brings creativity, strategic thinking, and collaboration to our financial work,” said President Kenneth Janz. “Ted’s experience and commitment to strong financial stewardship position him well to support our university’s future.”
In his role as Vice President for Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer, Butler will lead the university’s Finance and Administration division, including oversight of financial services, facilities, human resources, campus safety, environmental health and safety, and emergency management.
Reporting directly to the President and serving on the President’s Cabinet, Butler will provide strategic financial leadership that guides institutional decision-making and ensures strong fiscal stewardship in support of students, employees, and the university’s mission. His work will be central to advancing Winona State 2035: Warrior Shield, strengthening institutional resilience, ensuring long-term sustainability, and remaining responsive to the needs of the campus community.
Butler holds a Bachelor of Accounting, a Bachelor of Arts in German, and a Master of Arts in Human Resources and Industrial Relations from the University of Minnesota.
“I am honored to join Winona State University and contribute to its mission,” said Butler. “I look forward to working with campus leaders and colleagues to support student success and ensure strong financial stewardship.”
Butler succeeds Scott Ellinghuysen, who will retire after nearly four decades of distinguished service to Winona State University.
