The Faces Behind UMBC’s Payments and Invoices

Meet Your Business Services Team

We’re excited to introduce the dedicated Business Services team who support UMBC’s Accounts Payable operations. This group works diligently behind the scenes to ensure the financial engine of our campus keeps running smoothly.

Together, they are responsible for:

• Issuing outgoing payments through PAW

• Preparing and transmitting daily accounting documentation to the State of Maryland

• Distributing incoming invoices to the appropriate departments

• Processing wire transfers requiring state authorization

• Managing interagency payments, also known as R*Stars

Their attention to detail and commitment to accuracy help ensure our vendors are paid on time, our financial records stay in order, and our campus operations continue without disruption.

Now, let’s meet the team:

Linda Rothfus, Manager, Business Services & AP

LSrothfus@umbc.edu

Linda has been a cornerstone of UMBC’s Business Services since 2004. Starting as an Assistant Manager, she quickly demonstrated exceptional leadership and was promoted to Manager in 2006. Known for her positive attitude and nurturing approach, Linda is deeply committed to fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment where every team member can grow and thrive. She prioritizes professional development and encourages continuous learning to keep the team skilled and motivated.

Originally from Lancaster, PA, Linda treasures her family time and enjoys visiting her hometown regularly. She especially values the moments spent with her two grandsons, who inspire her both personally and professionally.

Crystal Hux, Business Services Specialist
crystalh@umbc.edu

Crystal joined the Business Services team on January 2, 2024, and quickly became a go-to expert in the wire transfer and payment request process. Her deep understanding of these complex procedures helps keep UMBC’s financial operations running smoothly. In addition to her day-to-day responsibilities, Crystal plays a key role in training and mentoring the team, supporting ongoing professional development to ensure everyone stays current with evolving practices.

Outside of work, Crystal is a passionate Dungeons & Dragons player and a talented visual artist who brings creativity into everything she does.

Lauren Earnest, Business Services Specialist
laurene2@umbc.edu

Lauren joined the Business Services team in October 2024, bringing with her over five years of prior experience in Accounts Payable. At UMBC, she serves as a key point of contact between departments and Business Services, helping to ensure that incoming invoices are routed accurately and processed efficiently. Her responsiveness and clear communication help keep things moving behind the scenes.

Outside of work, Lauren is an animal lover who adores her dog, Sadie. On weekends, you can often find her bartending—a hobby she enjoys for both the creativity and connection it brings.

Jalen Perkins, Business Services Specialist
jalenp1@umbc.edu

Jalen joined the Business Services team in August 2022 and brings a strong skill set in Excel and PAW. A proud UMBC alum from the Class of 2022, Jalen focuses primarily on vendor outreach—building relationships with major partners to ensure compliance and timely payments. His clear communication and attention to detail make him a vital part of the team’s success.

In his free time, Jalen enjoys reading, watching movies, and spending time with his beloved cat, Apolo.

Please join us in recognizing the incredible work this team does to keep things running smoothly across our campus. If you have questions related to payments, invoices, or vendor communication—this is the team to know!

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