Kathryn Ayer

Office Manager, University Recreation and Well-Being

Kathryn Ayer brings precision, consistency, and a deep commitment to service to her role as Office Manager for University Recreation & Well-Being at Oakland University. For more than six years, she has served as the department’s organizational anchor—streamlining financial operations, strengthening administrative workflows, and ensuring that every behind-the-scenes detail consistently supports an exceptional campus recreation experience every single day.

In her role, Kathryn masters a full suite of financial processes, from journal vouchers and P-card audits to bid documents, requisitions, and complex credit-card reconciliations. She oversees procurement functions, vendor transactions, payment vouchers, and financial compliance procedures while preparing travel summaries, resolving ledger discrepancies, and completing fiscal year-end reconciliation and closing documentation. A skilled problem-solver and systems expert, she brings accuracy and consistency to all she does.

Prior to joining Rec Well, Kathryn spent 3.5 years as a Financial Aid Assistant II in OU’s Student Financial Services office, managing FAFSA and loan processing, supporting federal compliance, and improving communication workflows for students and families. She began her career in the Waterford School District as a Counseling Secretary, gaining foundational experience in scheduling, records management, and student support.

A lifelong learner, Kathryn is actively pursuing her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Organizational Leadership. She also holds an MPA, a B.A. in Integrative Studies with a Human Resource Development minor, and an A.A. in Criminal Justice.

Kathryn manages her well-being through restorative experiences—paddle boarding, peaceful hikes, meaningful family vacations, and mindfulness practices that help her reset, recharge, and stay grounded.