CSMFO Mentorship and Cohort Programs Empower the Next Generation of Public Finance Leaders

CSMFO Mentorship and Cohort Programs Empower the Next Generation of Public Finance Leaders

By: Debbie Rosales, 2026 CSMFO Board Member & Channel Counties Chapter

The California Society of Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO) continues its commitment to professional excellence with its Mentorship and Cohort Programs—two impactful initiatives designed to support growth, leadership development, and long-term success in public finance.

Together, these programs create structured pathways for learning, connection, and career advancement, serving finance professionals at various stages of their careers while strengthening the public finance community statewide.

Mentorship Program: Experience Meets Aspiration

The CSMFO Mentorship Program pairs emerging and mid-career professionals with seasoned municipal finance leaders who bring years of practical experience and insight. Through one-on-one relationships, participants gain personalized guidance on career planning, technical skills, leadership development, and navigating the unique challenges of public sector finance.

For mentees, the program offers a trusted space to ask questions, build confidence, and gain perspective beyond day-to-day responsibilities. For mentors, it provides a meaningful opportunity to give back, share institutional knowledge, and help shape the future of the profession.

The result is a mutually beneficial relationship that fosters professional growth, strengthens leadership pipelines, and reinforces the collaborative spirit of CSMFO.

Cohort Program: Learning Together, Growing Together

CSMFO’s Cohort Program offers a structured, group-based learning experience focused on skill-building, peer collaboration, and shared problem-solving. Participants move through the program together, engaging in facilitated discussions, targeted training sessions, and collaborative activities centered on real-world public finance topics.

The cohort model encourages participants to learn from one another’s experiences, broaden their professional networks, and develop lasting connections with peers across agencies and regions. By progressing as a group, participants gain accountability, diverse perspectives, and a strong sense of community.

This program is especially valuable for professionals seeking a deeper understanding of public finance practices while building relationships that extend well beyond the program’s duration.

A Stronger Profession Through Connection

Both the Mentorship and Cohort Programs reflect CSMFO’s mission to promote excellence, integrity, and innovation in public finance. Whether through individualized guidance or collaborative learning, these programs equip participants with the knowledge, confidence, and connections needed to thrive in an evolving public sector environment.

By investing in people at every career stage, CSMFO is not only supporting individual success—but also strengthening the future of municipal finance across California.

Registration is now open for both programs. Don’t wait – sign up today!

Mentorship program - https://csmfo.org/page/mentorship

Cohort program - https://csmfo.org/page/cohorts

Debbie Rosales is the Finance Manager with Las Virgenes Municipal Water District.  She has over 20 years of professional government and non-profit experience in finance.  Debbie holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Management from Webster University, a Master of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Redlands, and a Certificate in Accounting for Governmental and Nonprofit Organizations from UC Riverside.  Debbie has participated in CSMFO since 2014 and has volunteered in various roles including Chapter Chair of both the Inland Empire and Channel Counties Chapters, Membership Committee and Career Development Committee.  She currently serves on the CSMFO Board of Directors and chairs the Channel Counties Chapter.  Debbie is passionate about continuing education and staff development and membership engagement.  Debbie and her husband Mark are avid Disney fans who enjoy traveling, visiting family, and doting on their granddaughter.