Leader in Educational Finance Joins California Lutheran University

Dave C. Lawrence, EdD, MBA, brings over 30 years of experience in financial leadership to his new position as California Lutheran University’s chief financial officer and vice president for finance and administration.

Lawrence was selected following a comprehensive and competitive search process.

“The hiring committee’s engagement and commitment to excellence helped us identify that Dr. Lawrence is a leader who will guide us forward with clarity and purpose,” said Cal Lutheran President John Nunes, PhD.

Lawrence has extensive expertise in higher education finance at private and religiously affiliated universities, strategic planning and operational leadership. He is widely recognized for his strategic thinking, analytical skills and ability to drive results through collaboration and innovation.

At Cal Lutheran, Lawrence works primarily under the direction of President Nunes and provides financial updates and insights to the Board of Regents.

“I was drawn to Cal Lutheran because of its thoughtful, long-term strategies that strengthen the university’s mission to educate students as engaged and purposeful leaders,” Lawrence said. “Our deep roots in the community and commitment to fiscal responsibility ensure that we can continue to protect the university’s financial health while advancing key strategic priorities.”

Before joining the university, Lawrence held executive leadership positions in finance at National University and served as the special advisor to the university president and board of trustees. At Pacific Union College, he was the chief financial advisor and vice president for financial administration.

Lawrence earned his doctorate in educational leadership and administration from La Sierra University in Riverside and his MBA, with an emphasis in accounting and finance, from California State University, San Bernardino.