Alicia Estey serves as the Chief Financial and Operating Officer and Vice President for Finance and Operations at Boise State University, where she oversees a $743 million all-funds institutional budget and leads 37 campus financial and operations units. With a diverse educational background including a Juris Doctor, Master of Public Health, and Bachelor's in Business Administration in Accountancy, Estey brings a unique multidisciplinary perspective to her leadership role.
Throughout her career at Boise State University, which began in 2006, Estey has demonstrated exceptional financial acumen and operational leadership. She successfully eliminated a $15 million structural deficit and launched over $220 million in major capital projects, including a new residence hall, science research building, and football stadium expansion. Her strategic advocacy secured $96 million in state funding for addressing deferred maintenance needs.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Estey leveraged her public health expertise to lead the university's response, establishing a comprehensive public health infrastructure that enabled continued face-to-face instruction while maintaining campus safety. This included developing a CLIA-certified lab, testing and vaccine center, contact tracing unit, and isolation facilities for residential students. Beyond her core responsibilities, Estey has shown commitment to educational development through her work with the Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique, where she helps develop preschool programs and expand the university's social science research presence. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes service, collaboration, and transparent decision-making.
Prior to her current role, Estey held various positions at BSU, including Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff, and Chief Compliance Officer. She also worked at J.R. Simplot Company as a Tax Associate, managing international, federal, state, and local tax compliance. Her career trajectory reflects her ability to adapt, innovate, and successfully manage complex organizational challenges while maintaining a focus on institutional growth and community impact.
