Michelle Tidwell is the new accounting specialist for Statewide Foundation Accounting. She is responsible for accurate preparation of audit and tax workpapers, supervision of accounting staff and analyzing and interpreting complex accounting issues. She started Oct. 15, 2009.

Prior to joining the University of Alaska, Michelle worked as an investment analyst, chief financial officer and auditor in Texas. She grew up in Arlington, Texas, and lived there until she went to Baylor University� in Waco, Texas. After graduating, she moved to Houston. She recently moved to Alaska to take this new position.

Michelle holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting, Beta Alpha Psi Accounting Honors Fraternity. She is pursuing her certified public accountant license and taking classes at UAF in pursuit of an MBA, with an emphasis in capital markets.

Michelle is married to Ryan Tidwell, investment analyst for the Foundation. They have a 12-pound poodle-mix, Sandy. Michelle says she enjoys most outdoor activities, but her favorite is downhill skiing.

Ryan Tidwell is the new investment analyst for Statewide Foundation Accounting. He is part of the investment management team responsible for the analysis, allocation and review of investments for the consolidated endowment and operating portfolios of the University of Alaska.

Prior to joining the University of Alaska, Ryan was chief investment officer and co-founder of a small private wealth management firm in Houston. He also served as the chief equity strategist for another firm.� Ryan started his career as an analyst for the Global Energy Group in the investment banking division of Credit Suisse.

Ryan was born and raised in Columbus, Georgia. His father's job relocated the family to North Palm Beach, Florida, and then to Houston. He went to college at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in finance. He graduated summa cum laude and is a Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA).

Ryan is married to Michelle Tidwell, accounting specialist for the Foundation.� He is an avid Baylor and Alabama football fan and enjoys golf and downhill skiing.

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