After 20 years of dedication to Vanderbilt University, Lauren Brisky, vice chancellor for administration and chief financial officer, announced her Feb. 1 retirement.

Although Brisky has overseen significant financial progress, including a $3.1 million operating budget and the expansion of the financial aid program, she says her most valuable contribution has been the establishment of a 1,500 person staff.

"One of the biggest things she has done is to build a group of highly respected professionals to help manage Vanderbilt's administrative areas," said Jerry Fife, who will succeed Brisky as vice chancellor for administration. "From dining to facilities to Vanderbilt's computer infrastructure, Lauren's fingerprints are everywhere."

Brisky was named vice chancellor for administration in 1999, becoming the highest-ranking woman in Vanderbilt's history.

"Having ǃÚpower' in a senior position is not defined by gender or by title - but by leadership," said Brisky. "I have always given my best and have never focused on the power of my position - but rather through leadership I have tried to be the model of professionalism and integrity for others."

Betty L. Price, the current deputy vice chancellor for finance and controller, will succeed Brisky as the acting vice chancellor for finance and the chief financial officer.

Chancellor Nicholas Zeppos appointed the pair from her team of senior staff members, according to Brisky. After mentoring several professionals at Vanderbilt, Brisky said she feels gratified knowing the chancellor and the leadership team had the confidence in these two members to fill the roles.

Brisky plans to continue serving on numerous community and national boards after her retirement.

"Those who know me are not expecting me to put my feet up any time soon," she said. "I am a true believer in giving back, and that is what I plan to continue to do."