The next generation of finance officers...
On May 3, 2021, through the power of Zoom, three decentralized CSMFO members provided a live panel discussion to about 25 students enrolled in the Master of Public Administration program at San Francisco State University. The session was also recorded for those students who were not able to attend the live session.
Panelists included:
- Craig Boyer, Assistant Controller for the County of Alameda (Bay Area, Central CA)
- Dan Buffalo, Finance Director for the City of Ukiah (Northern CA)
- Karla Romero, Finance Director for the City of Brawley (Southern CA)
The 90-minute session started with the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the panelists. Then discussions continued with examples on careers in local government, the importance of public service, and government employment benefits. The panel wrapped up with the value of networking, ongoing education, steps students can take as they prepare to transition into the workforce, and resource examples that included exploring the CSMFO website and becoming a student member, which is free to all students.
The students were already interested in working for local government, therefore examples and stories shared included behind the scenes information such as preparing for an interview, how to communicate with elected officials and the public through storytelling, the geographical flexibility of working for local government, and the ability to transfer knowledge and skills throughout one’s career, the openness of sharing knowledge amongst agencies, and how each local government has a unique culture that drives its priorities.
Panelists also answered various student questions and provided their contact information as a future resource. In the end, a virtual picture was taken and the session ended with hopes to see one another again at a future CSMFO chapter meeting, training event, conference, as a colleague, or as a consultant.
From the entire CSMFO family, we send all graduating students a BIG congratulations on their academic achievements. For those in school, keep going it’s worth it. Do consider a career in government; it is a rewarding experience.
Craig Boyer is Assistant Controller for the Auditor-Controller Agency at the County of Alameda. He has over 17 years of local government experience, working as an external auditor as well as working for a county, city, and a special district. Craig joined CSMFO as a member in 2011, has served on several committees, and is a current board member. Craig likes to spend his free time with his family – his wife and two kids ages 16 and 14. He enjoys reading, traveling with his family, and barbequing when the weather is nice.
Dan Buffalo is the Chapter Chair for the North Coast Valley Chapter and serves as the Finance Director for the City of Ukiah, California. Mr. Buffalo has over fourteen years of local government experience in finance and municipal management. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of California, Davis; a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Southern California and is a Certified Public Accountant, licensed in the State of California.
Karla Romero is the Finance Director/City Treasurer for the City of Brawley, has served on several committees, and a current board member. She has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Business Administration; with 15 years of progressive local government experience. She enjoys seeing others succeed and is passionate about mentoring and sharing knowledge. In her free time, she enjoys reliving her childhood with an active son named Titus, traveling, and staying connected with family and friends.
