About five years ago, the pandemic provided the opportunity for CSMFO to rethink the delivery of many of its member programs leading to quick expansion of webinar topics and the testing of new ways to engage members. The organization now finds itself in a period of focus and intentionality around delivering high-quality member value. It is with this context that I knew two key elements of the conference theme had to be education and connection.  

It is the attainment and application of knowledge that helps us to advance our careers and the professionalism of our agencies. The annual conference is CSMFO’s premier educational event with 5 pre-conference sessions, 51 concurrent sessions, and 3 featured speakers. The Program Committee has done an incredible job organizing sessions across seven course tracks and in consideration of all levels of professional experience to ensure content of interest for all in attendance. Additionally, the San Jose Convention Center provides generous space for a comfortable learning experience. In combination with the breadth of webinars and core courses delivered throughout the year, education will always be a cornerstone of CSMFO.

While education facilitates the technical aspects of our profession, I believe that it is the sharing of this knowledge, and the personal connections made along the way, that truly make municipal finance a fulfilling career. Conference Host Committee members have been busy all year ensuring that there are plenty of social opportunities for members to meet new colleagues and reconnect with annual conference besties. Several activities have been organized for first-time attendees, such as conference mentors, a session on leveraging your conference experience, and a pre-Thursday night meet up. These opportunities are intended to make our newcomers feel immediately welcomed to this powerhouse network. On that topic, the Thursday night event at The Tech Interactive is a block from the convention center and promises to be an unforgettable night of fun and socializing. Educational and networking resources are available in abundance to our members, and I hope that you will use them to your greatest advantage. 

I want to challenge you even further. Often, we limit our potential because we don’t know how to “get there” or we don’t want to fail or we have doubts, but what if you just took the one small step toward your next goal? The next promotion, leadership position, or new adventure? Come to the 2025 CSMFO Annual Conference for education and connection and leave empowered to achieve more and become your best self. 

As the Assistant Director of Administrative Services for the City of Lafayette, Jennifer Wakeman oversees accounting, investments, debt management, and budgeting/financial reporting, as well as benefits, plan administration, and policy development. While she enjoys managing the City’s finances and supporting staff, she simultaneously serves as President-Elect for the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers and as a Commissioner on the California Uniform Construction Cost Accounting Commission. Accustomed to working on many fronts at the same time, when not in the office, she can be found wrangling three rowdy sons ages 14, 12, and 7.