Southwestern Adventist University is pleased to announce the appointment of Chad Giles, CPA, as its new Vice President for Financial Administration, effective mid-May 2025.
Giles brings over 25 years of experience in auditing, financial strategy, and nonprofit administration to his new role. A licensed CPA in both Maryland and Texas, he most recently served as Director in the Nonprofit Assurance Department at CliftonLarsonAllen LLP (CLA) in Fort Worth. Prior to his time at CLA, Giles spent two decades in leadership roles at the General Conference Auditing Service, where he provided financial oversight and strategic insight across North America and internationally.
“Chad brings a rare combination of financial expertise, mission alignment, and a servant leader’s heart,” said Ana Patterson, President of Southwestern Adventist University. “His deep experience with nonprofit institutions, particularly within the Seventh-day Adventist Church, makes him uniquely qualified to help lead us into a financially strong and mission-focused future.”
At CLA, Giles was recognized for his ability to streamline audit workflows, implement innovative technologies, and mentor high-performing teams. He led assurance services for a wide range of nonprofit organizations and was instrumental in expanding CLA’s nonprofit footprint in Texas, adding six new clients in less than a year.
Giles is a graduate of Columbia Union College (now Washington Adventist University), where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Business Administration. He later completed a Master of Science in Management with a concentration in Accounting at the University of Maryland.
An active member of his local church and community, Giles currently serves as Finance Chair at the Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church. He and his family reside in Burton, Texas.
In an internal announcement to faculty and staff, President Patterson acknowledged the excitement of this transition while also expressing gratitude to Interim Vice President for Financial Administration, Ron Wehtje. “Ron’s service has been invaluable, allowing us to conduct a thoughtful and thorough search for the right candidate,” she said. “We are deeply appreciative of his continued support during this transition.”
Reflecting on his new appointment, Giles shared:
"It is a privilege to join Southwestern Adventist University—a campus with a clear mission and a vibrant future. I look forward to supporting our students, faculty, and staff through faithful financial stewardship and strategic growth."