CSMFO Student Spotlight: Andy Flores
The CSMFO Student Engagement Committee is growing and excited to introduce a career in municipal finance to a new generation! We are excited to spotlight a recent graduate and new addition to the Student Engagement Committee, Andy Flores from the City of Anaheim. Read on for insights into Andy’s experience as a CSMFO student. If you know of any students looking to get involved or have a local college or university in need of outreach, please feel free to reach out to the Student Engagement Committee!
1. How did you become aware of CSMFO, and specifically CSMFO student membership?
I first became aware of CSMFO via posts on LinkedIn in late 2019. The posts were intriguing, so naturally, I began to research and looked more into the organization. Given the fact that I was on the verge of transitioning into a career in public finance, the more I read about CSMFO’s initiative, the more it resonated with me professionally, hence sparking my interest to join. Shortly after this, I came across another post on LinkedIn highlighting a free student membership with CSMFO. I was surprised to see such an enticing benefit to join a professional organization, so I immediately felt the need to join and get involved.
2. There are many free benefits associated with CSMFO membership – have any of these proven valuable for you personally?
In my opinion, the free student membership is probably one of the most valuable benefits of CSMFO. I see it as an “opportunity gateway” for students and they should consider joining if it piques their interest and aligns with their career initiative. This allows them to witness what goes on within an organization of this nature, and it also exposes them to the many benefits this organization has to offer. In addition, the free chapter meetings are also great as they provide valuable topics, training, and the opportunity to network. For me, personally, my membership has lead me to take valuable finance courses that further expand my practical knowledge in this field. These courses are taught by current and former practitioners and offer a wealth of knowledge in this respective field.
3. How can CSMFO leaders help enhance the student experience of being a member?
Thus far, I feel that CSMFO has done a great job of creating an inclusive environment for students. Specifically with the efforts of the Student Engagement Committee. Much like the other members, whether you’re a practitioner or a professor, students are right there in the mix. I feel that I have the ability to participate and or engage at any time, which is a great feeling. With that said, there is always room for improvement, so there are always ways to further expand our reach and innovation. Perhaps students may expect a more tailored training and or networking platform with their membership? It’s quite possible that students may see that as a more fitting platform that will allow them to expand further on what their membership offers.
4. As a recent grad school graduate, do you have any advice for students going back to school this fall?
Yes, stay positive and keep your eye on the prize, but also make time for yourself to physically and mentally relax. With all of the obstacles we face in our daily lives, it’s important to set time aside in order to rejuvenate. Another important piece of advice is to be patient. The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly increased our stress levels and our patience tends to be limited. So, be aware of that going into things! Be kind!
5. Which CSMFO committee is your favorite, and why is it Student Engagement?
Being that I became a member of CSMFO as a student, I felt that the Student Engagement Committee would be a good fit for me. It’s an important initiative to promote student involvement and highlight that CSMFO is open to its membership. Personally, my push to get involved was cemented by an amazing e-mail I had received one day from the committee chair. The subject line read “CSMFO Loves Students!”, so I thought, oh that’s awesome, I’m feeling the love! Being that I was a recent grad, I thought this would be a great committee to be a part of and here we are!
6. Anything else you’d like to share with the CSMFO community?
I’m grateful to be a member of CSMFO and I am looking forward to my work with the committee. I would highly encourage anyone who is on the fence of becoming a member to look further into CSMFO. Please reach out to current members to get more information about this wonderful organization. Also, if you happen to know of any students or professors, that are not members, please feel free to share your experience and involvement with them.
With that, I leave you with the following quote:
“The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined effort of each individual.”
-Vince Lombardi
Andy Flores most recently served the great City of Anaheim for nearly six and half years in the Planning & Building Department. Andy is a dedicated public sector professional who has worked diligently on his educational and professional objectives. Andy enjoys sports, fishing, and spending time with his wife and two and half year old son.
Amber Johnson is the Chair of the Student Engagement Committee and serves as the Director of Administrative Services for the City of Belvedere, California. She has a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management and holds the Certified Public Finance Officer designation with GFOA. Amber has over 20 years of experience in accounting and finance, with 10 years of progressive local government experience. In her free time, she can be found having wonderful adventures near and far with her family – her husband Daryl, and two young kids – Zach (8) and Gabi (6).
