Vivian Gray, Assistant Director for Business Services, began working at the College of Veterinary Medicine in 2022.
When did you begin working at the College of Veterinary Medicine?
I joined the college in November 2022 as Assistant Director for Business Services. Before that I worked at the College of Engineering as Assistant Director, grant administration.
Describe your role at the college.
I am primarily responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Business Service Center (BSC). The BSC is the first point of contact for the college for arranging business travel, payment of non-travel expenses such as payment of professional licenses, procurement of equipment, goods and services, reimbursing employees and non-employees, payments to students, payment of invoices, managing the college’s purchasing and travel cards and providing advice on university policies and business procedures.
What is your favorite part of your job?
I love challenges and solving problems. To bring the college’s business processes and procedures in line with changes that have occurred at the university and with our external partners, there are several process improvements that I have been working on. These are aimed at improving the efficiency of the services provided by the BSC so that we can be more responsive to the needs of those we serve. It is much like a puzzle, so I am on a quest to solve that puzzle.
Complete this sentence: My most memorable day at work was…
…the day I realized the many ways and the significant impact the research work done here at the college has on the treatment and management of diseases not only in animals but in humans.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I am an avid reader. I like hiking, running, and spending time with my kids.
What is something your co-workers may be surprised to know about you?
I’m 100% vegan.
What is one thing on your bucket list?
To visit the Great Pyramids of Giza.
Do you have a favorite restaurant or place in the Champaign/Urbana area?
Forage Kitchen and Café Bene (try the Misugaru Latte with my own twist – an extra shot of espresso).
Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?
Seasoned French fries.
Do you have any pets?
None.
