Eastern's Kate Rotella selected as NIGP governing board chair

Kate Rotella, director of fiscal affairs/acquisitions for the Office of Fiscal Affairs, has been named governing board chair of NIGP: The Institute for Public Procurement for the 2024-25 term. Rotella's selection represents a significant milestone for her professional career and highlights the university's influence in the national arena of public procurement.

"I am truly honored and excited to step into the role of chair for the NIGP. This is a significant opportunity for me to serve our incredible profession and the dedicated members who make it so impactful. As chair, my focus will be on continuing to elevate the standards, support professional development, and foster a collaborative environment where we can all grow and succeed together."

She continued, "One of my key priorities is to collaborate with higher education institutions to create a professional path of study for upcoming younger generations. By establishing these partnerships, we can ensure that the future of our profession is vibrant, diverse and well-prepared to meet the evolving needs of our communities. I look forward to working alongside our talented community to achieve great things and advance the mission of NIGP."

Rick Grimm, CEO of NIGP, expressed his support for Rotella's new role. "I'm honored to lend my unequivocal support to Kate as she ascends to the top leadership position at NIGP as our governing board chair," Grimm said. "I've had the pleasure of working with Kate in various capacities over the years, including her two years of steadfast leadership as chair of the NIGP Finance Council during trying times for the institute during the COVID-19 pandemic."

Under Rotella's leadership, NIGP will see significant advancements, particularly in bridging public procurement and academia. "With her history and vast experience serving the institute, Kate will play a critical role in expanding our reach to colleges and universities as we develop our Center for the Advancement of Research and Excellence (CARE)," Grimm said.

The establishment of CARE is geared toward making public procurement a career of choice, beginning with educational institutions like Eastern Connecticut State University. Rotella's efforts will be crucial in selecting the new NIGP CEO as Grimm transitions into retirement, ensuring a seamless leadership continuation.

"The collaboration between NIGP and academic institutions is vital for the advancement of public procurement," Grimm said. "As we think about the future of our great profession, academia and research will play an outsized role in the work that NIGP will take on. That's why having strong strategic relationships with universities like Eastern will be core to the mission of NIGP as we focus more on research to drive excellence in the profession."

Jim Howarth, vice president emeritus for Finance and Administration, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunities ahead. "We are excited about the contributions that Kate Rotella's leadership will bring to the broader public procurement community," Howarth said. "Her appointment not only highlights the significant role our institution plays in this crucial field but also sets the stage for further advancing our influence in public procurement. We congratulate Kate on her prestigious appointment and are eager to see her shape the future of public procurement through her leadership."

About NIGP: The Institute for Public Procurement

NIGP: The Institute for Public Procurement is a vital resource for procurement professionals across North America. Founded to promote the standards of ethical procurement practices, NIGP offers training, resources, and advocacy to enhance the integrity and effectiveness of public procurement. Its members include professionals from government agencies and entities who are responsible for managing billions in public funds each year through effective procurement.