MURFREESBORO, N.C. — Chowan University’s Business Office is led by a team of experienced professionals dedicated to providing sound financial stewardship and exceptional service to students, faculty, staff, and the University community. Through expertise in accounting, finance, and business operations, the office plays a vital role in supporting Chowan’s mission and ensuring the University’s financial health.

Leading the Business Office is Cheryl D. Turner, Vice President for Business Affairs. Turner brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in accounting, finance, budgeting, and strategic business operations. Her extensive background in higher education finance provides oversight for the University’s financial operations while helping position Chowan for long-term fiscal sustainability and institutional success.

“I am honored to join Chowan University and look forward to working alongside our Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and students to support the University’s mission,” Turner said. “Together, we will continue to strengthen Chowan’s financial foundation while ensuring responsible stewardship that supports student success and the University’s long-term growth.”

Providing continuity and leadership within the department is April M. Matthews, Director of Business/Comptroller, who has served in Chowan University’s Business Office for the past three years. Matthews oversees the University’s day-to-day financial operations, including accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, and internal controls. Before becoming Director of Business/Comptroller, she served as Chowan’s Financial Operations specialist and managed the University’s Follett Bookstore from 2020 to 2023. Prior to joining higher education, Matthews built extensive leadership experience as a Healthcare Call Center Operations Manager. A Murfreesboro native, she brings valuable institutional knowledge and a strong commitment to serving the University community.

Supporting the University’s financial operations is Deborah J. Fields, Staff Accountant for Student Services. Fields oversees student accounts and accounts receivable functions, working closely with students and families to ensure accurate billing, payment processing, and customer service. Prior to joining Chowan, she built an extensive career in banking and financial services, developing expertise in financial operations, account management, and client relations.

Noah Stewart, Staff Accountant for Banking and Finance, manages the University’s banking activities and financial transactions while supporting daily accounting operations. A Chowan University graduate from Windsor, North Carolina, Stewart brings a unique perspective to his work, along with a deep understanding of the University’s mission and operations. Guided by the belief, “Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard,” Stewart is committed to accuracy, accountability, and service. His dedication and strong work ethic exemplify the values that define Chowan University’s Business Office team. 

Serving as Staff Accountant for Accounts Payable, Shanee’ Hamilton oversees vendor payments and accounts payable operations, helping ensure timely and accurate financial processing across the University. Before joining Chowan, Hamilton served as an Accounts Payable Technician at Roanoke-Chowan Community College and earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mathematics from Elizabeth City State University, bringing strong analytical and financial management skills to her role.

Together, Turner, Matthews, Fields, Stewart, and Hamilton form a Business Office team committed to accuracy, accountability, and service. Their collective expertise supports the University’s daily operations while providing dependable financial guidance and resources for students, faculty, staff, vendors, and campus partners. It is no surprise that both Matthews and Hamilton described Chowan in one word as “welcoming.” That shared sentiment reflects the culture of the Business Office—a team dedicated to making every interaction with students, families, faculty, staff, and campus partners both helpful and hospitable. 

As Chowan University continues to invest in strong leadership and operational excellence, the Business Office remains a cornerstone of the institution’s success, ensuring financial integrity and supporting the University’s mission of preparing students for lives of purpose and leadership.