CSMFO Past-President Highlight, Irwin Bornstein 1990
Throughout 2021, CSMFO plans to highlight past presidents and others in leadership to share info on how they first got involved in our organization, fondest CSMFO memories, the role of mentoring others, and other experiential knowledge. Some remain very involved with CSMFO by being active on committees or teaching training classes. Both David Cain and I have approached these leaders with a series of questions about their past experience with CSMFO and some words of wisdom to share with our members. We are excited to share a highlight of past-president Irwin Bornstein.
Irwin Bornstein, retired member, currently teaches the Intermediate Accounting and Financial Reporting course for CSMFO, perhaps you attended virtually last year or plan to register this year. He also stays involved by attending the annual conference and the Orange County chapter meetings. He views teaching as a way to give back and encourage others to make municipal finance their career choice.
CSMFO: It is always interesting to find out how one first got involved with CSMFO and with what agency were you working at the time?
IB: I was working as the Assistant Finance Director in the City of Anaheim. George Ferrone who was the Finance Director at the time, encouraged involvement in CSMFO. [Ed. Note – George Ferron was Past President in 1986 and a Distinguished Service Award Winner in 1988). Anaheim hosted the 1982 annual conference and I was very involved with the registration effort for that conference.
CSMFO: As you moved forward in your career, where did you see the role of CSMFO for others in your organization?
IB: As Administrative Services Director in Mission Viejo, I encouraged my three division managers to become actively involved in CSMFO. Since I knew this would be a very rewarding experience for them and provide a networking opportunity and a chance to enhance their careers.
CSMFO: Knowing what you know now, what do you tell someone new to the public finance field and the role of CSMFO?
IB: What a great career choice! We need bright, dedicated individuals to keep our government agencies in sound financial shape. There is so much opportunity to make a difference and serve the public. In regard to CSMFO, the more you are involved, the more rewards with lasting friendships and professional development.
CSMFO: What is your fondest memory with CSMFO?
IB: Serving as President of CSMFO in 1990 was a great honor. I have such wonderful memories of the great team effort and support of the Board during that year. [Ed. note – 1990 conference location was San Diego].
Irwin is enjoying semi-retirement, when not neck deep in CSMFO activities. Among his favorites past-times are traveling, reading, piano, and playing cards. He received the 2012 Distinguished Service Award from CSMFO.
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Joan Michaels Aguilar began her career in municipal government over 40 years ago and recently retired with the latter part of her career focused on local government finance. Joan served as the 2019 CSMFO President and has worked for a variety of agencies throughout California and been active for many years in CSMFO on a variety of committees (Administration, Budget, Membership, Communications, and various Host Committees). Currently, Joan is one of the Senior Advisors of the Communications Committee. Even during these trying pandemic times, she enjoys travel and has discovered the beauty of the National Parks recently, visiting four in the past six months.
David Cain is Senior Advisor to the CSMFO Communications Committee and member of the 2021 annual conference committee. David is a retired Director of Finance from the City of Fountain Valley, having worked in the cities of San Bernardino, Chino, Sierra Madre, and for the Moulton Nigel Water District. He is also an Adjunct Professor for the MPA programs at CSUN and CSULB.
