The University of Guam has selected Dr. Artemio “Ricky” Hernandez, Ph.D., CGFM, as its new Vice President of Administration and Finance (VPAF). As VPAF, Hernandez will oversee the university’s financial operations, human resources, procurement campus facilities, information technology, safety, and other key administrative services.

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Hernandez was selected after a comprehensive search process which included candidates from Guam and off-island. He brings extensive public finance and administration leadership and policy experience to UOG. He recently served as Deputy Executive Manager of the Guam International Airport Authority and is recognized for his financial expertise across roles in the Government of Guam, including Deputy Administrator of the Guam Economic Development Authority and Director of the Guam Legislature’s Office of Finance and Budget.
 
"Dr. Hernandez's expertise in public finance and his longstanding commitment to higher education make him a tremendous asset to the university," said UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez. “His leadership will be instrumental as we align our financial strategies with our strategic goals for academic excellence, student success, and institutional sustainability.”
 
As VPAF/CBO, Hernandez will oversee the university’s financial operations, human resources, procurement, campus facilities, information technology, safety, and other key administrative services. He joins UOG at a critical time as the institution advances the priorities outlined in the Tulos Mo’na Strategic Plan, especially in revenue generation and operational efficiency.
 
Hernandez holds a BBA in Accounting from the University of Guam, a Master of Accounting from the University of Hawaii at Mānoa, and a Ph.D. in Business from Capella University. He is a Certified Government Financial Manager, Accredited Investment Fiduciary, and Certified Public Procurement Officer. His achievements include being named a national “20 Under 40” leader by the Council of State Governments, receiving the Association of Government Accountants' National Emerging Leader Award of Excellence, and being selected for the 2024–2025 Obama Foundation Leaders Asia-Pacific program.
 
“It’s an incredible honor to return to my alma mater in this capacity,” Hernandez said. “This is more than a professional opportunity — it’s a chance to give back to the university that helped shape my career. I’m ready to serve and to support UOG’s mission with integrity, transparency, and a focus on results.”
 
Board of Regents Chairperson Agapito “Pete” Diaz welcomed the selection and praised Hernandez: “Dr. Hernandez’s public sector leadership and commitment to education made him the clear choice. We look forward to his contributions as UOG continues to fulfill its role in transforming lives and advancing communities.”
 
In addition to his professional roles, Hernandez has served as an adjunct instructor of accounting and public administration at UOG, and is active in the community through the Boards of the Government of Guam Retirement Fund and the Research Corporation of the University of Guam, as well as the Guam Green Growth Working Group.
 
“I believe deeply in the power of education and the critical role UOG plays in shaping our island’s future,” Hernandez added. “I’m excited to collaborate with the Triton community and help build a financially stronger, forward-looking university.”
 
About the University of Guam
 
The University of Guam is a public U.S. Land Grant and Sea Grant institution accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. With its mission of Ina, Diskubre, Setbe — to enlighten, to discover, to serve — UOG serves as a center of excellence for higher education, research, workforce development, and community engagement in the Western Pacific.