Vivian Reese Hill Named Assistant Director of MS Finance Program

Vivian Reese Hill has been named assistant director for the Master of Science in Finance program at the Sam M. Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas, effective Dec. 5, 2023.

“We are thrilled to have Vivian to spread the word about our exciting program, and we have already seen her make a huge difference in our recruiting and retention efforts,” said Cash Acrey, assistant professor of finance and director of the MS Finance program. “The Walton MSF program, as the premiere source of financial education in Arkansas, provides students with an intense and impactful deep dive into leading edge, innovative topics. Our students are incredibly competitive on the job market because we have tailored our curriculum to meet modern demands of the finance profession, placing heavy emphasis on financial data analytics, fintech and the technologies transforming the industry, and venture capital and the financing of innovation.

Hill comes to the finance department with a wealth of knowledge about Walton College and the university. Previously, she worked in Walton College’s Department of Strategy, Entrepreneurship & Venture Innovation Department, Office of Applied Sustainability Center, Tyson Center for Faith and Spirituality and the Department of Finance, providing administrative support.

In these roles, she was responsible for departmental event administration, office management, marketing and communication coordination, accounts receivable and more.

“Our Master of Science in Finance program exists to support students in transforming their lives through education,” Hill said. “It’s exciting to be a part of enhancing students’ futures! The Walton MSF degree program can give students a competitive advantage in the workplace, as well as stimulate their intellectual curiosity. That curiosity moves the world forward.”

Hill, a first-generation college graduate, earned a bachelor’s degree in art and performance from the University of Texas at Dallas and a Master of Science in Operations Management from the University of Arkansas. She is originally from Hope, Ark., and is an avid hiker.

The finance graduate degree is a one-year, full-time program that provides students with data analytics and advanced concepts in financial markets and venture innovations. The lucrative degree assists students in advancing their careers in financial management and analytics, securities/commodities, budget analytics and more. Priority applications for the fall semester are due by April 15.