Office of the Controller
The Office of the Controller serves as the steward of Meharry Medical College’s financial resources and is responsible for the institution’s accounting, financial reporting, treasury operations, and financial compliance functions. The Office ensures the integrity of the College’s financial records, supports informed decision-making and promotes accountability through sound financial management and internal controls.
Mission Statement
The Office of the Controller is committed to providing accurate financial information, exceptional customer service, strong internal controls, and responsible stewardship of institutional resources. Through collaboration, integrity, accountability, and continuous improvement, we support Meharry Medical College’s mission of excellence in education, research, patient care, and community service.
Vision Statement
To be a trusted strategic partner that advances Meharry Medical College’s mission through financial excellence, innovation, transparency and stewardship. We aspire to deliver best-in-class financial services that empower informed decision-making, strengthen institutional sustainability, and support the College’s continued growth and impact on the communities it serves.
The Office of the Controller provides leadership and oversight for the following areas:
Accounts Payable
The Accounts Payable team processes vendor invoices, employee reimbursements and other institutional payments in an accurate and timely manner. Through effective payment administration and strong financial controls, the team supports operational efficiency while ensuring responsible stewardship of College resources.
Payroll
The Payroll team manages all aspects of employee compensation, including payroll processing, tax reporting, benefit deductions and regulatory compliance. The department is committed to ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time while maintaining compliance with federal and state requirements.
Corporate Travel and Credit Card Accounting
Corporate Travel and Credit Card Accounting oversees the College’s travel and card programs, ensuring compliance with institutional policies, responsible spending practices, and accurate expense reporting.
Travel Program
Provides support for domestic and international travel, including travel policy guidance, expense reconciliation, and risk management.
Corporate Travel Card Program
Administers secure payment solutions for authorized travel expenses while promoting accountability and efficient expense management.
Corporate Purchasing Card Program
Facilitates approved business purchases, including grant-funded and research-related expenditures, through controlled purchasing card solutions that support operational and academic needs.
Purchasing
The Purchasing team administers procurement policies, vendor relationships and sourcing activities to ensure the efficient, cost-effective and compliant acquisition of goods and services. The department supports the College’s educational, research, clinical and administrative operations through responsible procurement practices.
General Accounting and Endowment
General Accounting maintains the integrity of the College’s financial records through account reconciliations, journal entries, financial analysis and reporting activities. The team supports month-end and year-end close processes, external audits and compliance with accounting standards.
The Endowment Accounting function oversees the accounting and financial reporting of endowed funds, ensuring compliance with donor intent, proper allocation of investment earnings and responsible stewardship of resources that support the College’s long-term mission.
Treasury Management
Treasury Management oversees the College’s cash resources, investments, banking relationships, and liquidity strategies to ensure the effective management and protection of institutional assets.
Student Financial Services
Student Financial Services supports student success by administering student account receivables and federal and campus-based student loan programs. The team provides responsive service while ensuring compliance with applicable federal, state, and institutional regulations.
Meet the Team
Jay Perkins
Assistant Vice President, Controller
jay.perkins@mmc.edu
Donnita Alexander
Payroll Coordinator
dalexander@mmc.edu
Shakendra Boggs
Accountant II
shakendra.boggs@mmc.edu
Davita Brown
Purchasing Coordinator
drbrown@mmc.edu
David Bullock
Accounting Project Manager
bullockd@mmc.edu
LaTonya Century
Assistant Controller and Treasurer/Finance
lcentury@mmc.edu
Margaret Collins
Director, Payroll
mbcollins@mmc.edu
Keisha Fleming
Accounts Payable Clerk III
keisha.fleming@mmc.edu
Delitha Patterson
Cash Management Coordinator
dpatterson@mmc.edu
Brina Shaw
Accounts Payable Clerk III
bshaw@mmc.edu
Mary Southall
Payroll Specialist
mary.southall@mmc.edu
DeJara Stittiams
Accountant II
dejara.stittiams@mmc.edu
Rhoda Summers
Student Financial Manager
rsummers@mmc.edu
Chrissy Tate
Travel and Corporate Card Manager
ctate@mmc.edu
Rochelle Tisdale
Student Financial Manager
rtisdale@mmc.edu
Marc Ware
Accountant II