Virginia Tech names Lauren Lawson university bursar

Lauren Lawson, manager of bursar operations and systems, has been named university bursar.

Lawson served as interim bursar since June 2020 and succeeds Melinda West, who recently became associate vice president and university controller.

As university bursar, Lawson has responsibility for the effective operation of the Office of the University Bursar, which includes accounts receivable, cash receipts and disbursements, payment plans, e-commerce, and institutional loans.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the university community and lead such a great team in the Bursar’s office. I am excited to continue our efforts implementing solutions that improve operational efficiency and provide outstanding customer service,” Lawson said. 

Lawson brings more than 15 years of progressive experience within the Office of the University Bursar. As interim bursar, she led a number of strategic process improvements and efficiency efforts, including the implementation of robotic process automations.

For this work, Virginia Tech received Transact’s 2021 Distinction Award for Innovation.

Lawson joined Virginia Tech in 2005 and has also held roles spanning the office’s cashiering, customer service, and accounting functions.

A two-time Virginia Tech graduate, Lawson earned a bachelor’s degree in business marketing and master’s degree in information technology.

“Throughout her time in the Bursar’s office, Lauren has successfully led system implementation and automation projects. Her immense knowledge of our operations and systems will be invaluable as we continue to assess and identify opportunities for improvement and to better serve our students, families, and campus,” West said. “I am thankful for her service and leadership over the past year, and I look forward to continue working closely with her in the future.”