Caitlin Riopel is a seasoned operations and finance leader dedicated to strengthening mission-driven work in higher education and the nonprofit sector. She currently serves as Director of Operations for the University of Virginia’s Division for Community Engagement and Equal Opportunity, where she manages day-to-day financial operations, oversees budget development, and supports divisional operations. In her role, Caitlin ensures that administrative systems, financial stewardship, and organizational processes align with the Division’s priorities, enabling its teams to advance equitable, community-centered partnerships across the University and beyond.

Before taking on divisional responsibilities, Caitlin served as Director of Operations for UVA’s Center for Community Partnerships, where she oversaw budget development, procurement processes, financial reporting, grant financial management, internal operations for the Center’s space rentals, and strengthened processes that support engagement efforts throughout the Charlottesville region. Prior to joining UVA, she spent more than a decade at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville, holding several key leadership roles, including Director of Operations, Director of Regional Housing, and Director of Advancement Operations. Her work there strengthened organizational infrastructure, expanded program delivery, and deepened community collaboration.

Caitlin is also deeply committed to service in the broader community. She currently serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees for the Montessori School of Charlottesville, guiding strategic vision, governance, and school leadership. In addition, she volunteers as the Treasurer for the Trades & Tech Education Foundation, supporting equitable, career-focused pathways for students pursuing work in the skilled trades and technical fields.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts from New College of Florida and a Master of Liberal Arts from St. John’s College in Santa Fe. Caitlin lives in Ivy, Virginia, with her husband and their two sons.