We Are IT | Kiara Sullivan

Kiara Sullivan, originally from Washington, D.C., pursued her college education at Florida A&M University, earning three degrees including a bachelor's in business and Spanish, and a master's in business administration. Transitioning from accounting to technology in 2010, she found her passion in financial application services at FSU, where she currently serves as the Associate Director. Outside of work, she enjoys refreshing her Spanish skills on DuoLingo, travel sports with her children and cherishes annual family reunions with her husband, siblings, nieces, nephews, and children. 

Where are you from?  

I was born and raised in Washington, D.C. and moved to Tallahassee for college.  

Where did you attend school? 

I attended Florida A&M University for my college education, where I pursued and earned three degrees. These include a bachelor's degree in business, another in Spanish, and a master's in business administration. My bachelor’s in business and MBA were part of a 5-year program.  

Why did you choose to work in technology? 

When I graduated, my internship was with the FAMU’s controller office before I landed a job in their accounting office. I began working with PeopleSoft, finding it intriguing as I've always been comfortable with computers. Despite attending summer tech camps, I wanted to work on the business side of technology. Luckily, I had the chance to learn PeopleSoft, write queries, and understand tables before diving into bank statement reconciliations, leading me where I am today. 

How long have you been at FSU?  

I started working at FSU in October 2010, where I was hired as an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Analyst 2. 

What is your role at FSU?   

My current role is the Associate Director of Financial Application Services. At the beginning of my day, I check emails and cases to ensure that all financial transactions and inquiries are promptly addressed. The rest of the day is spent working on projects and helping other teams that need our assistance. 

Another important aspect of my role is collaborating and brainstorming with campus partners to streamline processes and optimize financial systems. Our team manages the financial applications and many third-party system integrations for the Central Offices we support. These offices include the Controller's Office, Budget Office, Sponsored Research, Procurement Services, Foundation, Research Foundation, and College of Medicine - Family Medical Practice Plan. 

What do you enjoy most about your job?  

Truthfully, I love my job. While the day-to-day involves some aspects of financial services, one day is never the same. Things are ever changing and there is never a dull moment. I also enjoy working with our campus partners through collaboration and being able to understand their needs and putting the proper solutions in place to meet their needs.  

What is the most rewarding project you have worked on at FSU?  

One of my favorite projects that I’ve worked on is the Auxiliary Internal Billing project. The project enables FSU departments to bill and receive payments from other departments. The process ensures a steady flow of funds to prevent budget shortages, while also incentivizing buying departments to carefully consider their purchases. 

What is your favorite app? 

Duolingo! Lately, I have been using it to refresh my Spanish language proficiency and vocabulary.  

If you were to invent one piece of technology, what would it be?  

I would invent an automated car that I can program to take my kids wherever they need to go. It’d be safe and a major time saver for me and my family.  

What is a fun fact about you?   

A fun family tradition of mine is that every year, the cousins and siblings get together in Orlando for a 30-person reunion. The kids have a great time playing together, while the adults get to unwind and catch up. 

Talk a little bit about your family.  

I met my husband in college, and we got married a few years after. We have two children, Raelyn and Ryder, who love playing multiple sports. I am the oldest of 3 siblings, the other two are twins! My parents reside in D.C. with one of my sisters and the other resides here in Tallahassee. 

What do you do in your free time?  

My husband and I spend most of our free time with our children traveling to their local and away softball and baseball games. They love it, so it’s worth it.