David L. Archer President | Christian Brothers University website

Veronica “Ronnie” Vinson, Senior Administrative Coordinator for the School of Sciences and the Gadomski School of Engineering at Christian Brothers University (CBU), is recognized for her contributions to campus life and student support. Known for her role as Cantor at major university events, Vinson brings both musical talent and empathy to the CBU community.

Vinson credits former music directors Sister Maureen Griner and Judy Gray from the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception for teaching her how to connect emotionally through song. “I learned sung prayer under their leadership,” said Vinson. “It took me years, but I can look in the eyes of those who are hurting and need to be comforted by song. I can go there and give comfort through that additional layer of connection that tells them, ‘In my heart, my eyes, and my voice, I’m with you.’”

Her involvement on campus extends beyond music. She decorates campus spaces during holidays, sponsors a student club, supports fundraising efforts, participates in philanthropic activities, and prepares care packages for students during finals week.

Vinson’s background includes a childhood spent moving between various locations due to her father’s military career before settling in Holly Springs, Mississippi. After working at another Memphis university for three decades and serving as Parish Administrative Assistant at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception until 2022, she joined CBU following encouragement from Brother Thomas Sullivan.

“I called Brother Tom on a Monday and said, ‘I don’t work at the church anymore—if you know of any openings…,’” said Vinson. “He said, ‘I have the perfect spot for you,’ and the next Monday I was hired here at CBU as the Administrative Coordinator for the School of Sciences.”

Promoted in February 2025 to her current position overseeing both schools’ administrative needs, Vinson manages travel requests, billing processes, meeting schedules, faculty onboarding tasks, work orders—and says her favorite part is supporting students and staff.

“I have no kids, and wherever I work I ‘adopt’ them,” said Vinson. “They will come to my office and talk about boyfriend problems. They’ll tell me about a test they did terribly on or ask me for a dollar for the vending machine. It’s really sweet to be their momma away from home. If I can help them, I’ll do it.”

Students like biology major Riddhi Patel appreciate Vinson’s presence: “Ms. Vinson is truly the light and joy of Cooper Wilson. She’s always the first to offer a helping hand to anyone who needs it, and she makes every day here more welcoming, more fun, and more meaningful.”

Joseph Preston from CBU’s advancement office added: “​Ronnie has embodied the mission of CBU from the moment she stepped onto campus. Whether she’s interacting with a student, colleague or a first time visitor everyone is drawn to her infectious spirit and genuine enthusiasm.”

Dr. Lyndsey Pierson described Vinson as essential: “Ronnie has a gift for making you feel as though your needs are hers as well... Our Schools would not function nor would our jobs be nearly as enjoyable without her presence.”

Reflecting on what keeps her motivated at CBU despite busy days managing multiple responsibilities across two schools—her offices are located in both—the sense of community stands out most.

“I find that our students are naturally kind,” she said. “If they see you walking across campus with a box or see you need a hand they’ll stop... At Christmastime I feed them pizza...and they help me decorate.”

She also expressed appreciation for colleagues Dr. James Moore and Dr. Andrew Assaddollahi: “My two Deans...are two great men to work with—extremely smart very passionate about CBU like me yet totally different.” She continued: "The rest of faculty are wonderful too...we all desire to see students succeed."

“It’s a good feeling," concluded Vinson,"and CBU truly does provide a firm foundation for students to ‘enter to learn and leave to serve.’ I’m so proud to be a small part of their success.”