This past fall, the College of Engineering welcomed its new business manager, Lee Ann DeRita. In this newly created position – a first for the College – DeRita is responsible for overseeing the College’s financial operations and helping to drive its growth.  

For DeRita, the post is a perfect match, one that combines her financial expertise with her affinity for the academic environment. Prior to joining URI, DeRita held a management position at the Exeter Job Corps Academy in Exeter, R.I. She advocated the facility’s vocational, social, and academic approach to aiding economically disadvantaged individuals in their career pursuits. Having built the organization’s finance department, she played a vital part in its multi-faceted educational mission.

In characterizing herself, DeRita commented, “I’m primarily a mission-driven person.” She intends to utilize that drive at URI by “contributing to an institution whose objective it is to produce students who are life-long learners.” DeRita is also interested in the College of Engineering’s recent investigation into student-guided learning.

 DeRita has a great interest in academics. In 2002, she participated in the founding of the Quest Montessori School in Exeter, R.I., and served as business manager throughout its first year. Presently, she acts as treasurer and secretary. When asked about which aspect of Montessori she finds most beneficial for students, DeRita named its student-directed learning program. She strongly supports instruction based on student input, noting that it encourages a love of education.

A graduate of Bryant College,  DeRita holds a B.S. degree in management accounting and an MBA. In an effort to balance her professional life with her home life, DeRita completed her education by taking night classes over the course of fifteen years. Currently, she maintains her career without compromising her family, and still finds time to contribute to her community by volunteering for various organizations and institutions.

“Lee Ann’s financial acumen and commitment to education make her a valuable asset to the College,” said Bahram Nassersharif, dean of the College of Engineering. “Her experience and expertise will help us achieve our goal of enhancing the quality and scope of the engineering program at URI.”