Idaho Business Review’s annual statewide award for excellence in finance recognizes those who demonstrate outstanding performance in leadership, mentorship, community service and raising standards for their companies and the state. Excellence in Finance covers banking, corporate investment, education and professional sectors.
Alicia Estey, Boise State’s chief financial and operating officer, is among the awardees for 2024.
“Boise State is one of the most efficient and effective universities in the country. We provide an outstanding educational experience for our students while remaining fiscally responsible. We also have made investments that advance research, community partnerships and more. Alicia’s clear-eyed leadership and deep and broad knowledge have helped make Boise State the incredible place it is today, and I congratulate her on being recognized for her great work,” said Dr. Marlene Tromp, Boise State president.
Estey joined Boise State in 2006 as the special assistant to then-Vice President for Finance and Administration Stacy Pearson. She served in various roles in finance and administration including policy analyst, regulatory compliance officer and director of tax. Before coming to Boise State, Estey worked in the tax department at the J.R. Simplot Company. Her impressive, academic resume includes a bachelor’s of business administration in accountancy, a master’s in public health and a law degree.
With her diverse expertise, she oversees the university’s $743 million budget and 37 campus financial and operations units. As Chief Financial and Operating Officer, Estey eliminated a $15 million structural deficit while balancing the appropriated budget. She has launched more than $200 million in major capital projects on campus and guided the university through the COVID-19 pandemic. Leveraging her public health expertise, Estey created a testing lab, clinic, contact tracing program, and clinic that served the campus and the community.
“My most significant professional accomplishment is leading Boise State through the pandemic,” Estey told the Idaho Business Review. “Unlike many other institutions, Boise State resumed face-to-face classes in the fall of 2020, and safely remained open throughout the pandemic.”
Estey has served on the board of the Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children and as a trustee for the Boise School District. She has lent her talents to the Gorongosa Pre-K Project in Mozambique.
Estey’s colleagues praise her innovative mindset and talent for efficiency while never forgetting that the welfare of students and the larger community is at the heart of her work.
“Throughout her career, Alicia has demonstrated unparalleled commitment and expertise in financial management, compliance and operations,” said Lauren Griswold, chief communications and marketing officer at Boise State. “Her profound understanding of the complexities of public higher education institutions and strategic acumen has been pivotal in steering Boise State to stronger fiscal health.”