Since 1991—through its Black Caucus Affinity Group, the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has dedicated its resources to facilitate the integration and success of African Americans in the public finance space. More than three decades later, GFOA remains committed to its mission to support Black professionals pursuing careers in government finance.
For the past three years, the Black Caucus has recruited and empowered Historically Black College or University (HBCU) students to engage in state and city government finance and management. Today, the Caucus continues to build a strong coalition of HBCU students committed to developing their skills and preparing a successful professional path in public finance.
The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) remains committed to supporting young Black talents and voices in the public finance field. “Our engagement with HBCUS goes beyond recruitment—it’s rooted in representation and purpose, said GFOA staff and Black Caucus Liaison, Mark Mack. “Every visit reinforces our commitment to helping students recognize the power of their voices in shaping the future of public finance.”
A 2021 Economic Policy Institute (EPI) analysis found that Black professionals made up just 11.6 percent of the local government workforce. Similarly, a 2022 National League of Cities (NLC) report showed that over 60 percent of counties reported underrepresentation of people of color, with BIPOC employees falling about seven percentage points below the communities they serve.
These disparities underscore the importance of the GFOA Black Caucus’ engagement with HBCUs in cultivating diverse talent in public finance leadership. And this year’s campus visits reaffirmed that mission, as students demonstrated curiosity, confidence, and a readiness to lead.
From first-year students to graduating seniors, HBCU students made one thing clear: they are more eager than ever to engage in today’s conversations around government finance and its impact on states and cities nationwide. As GFOA staff and Black Caucus member Thao Pham described it, “these students weren’t just looking for opportunities—they were ready to contribute, to ask thoughtful questions, and to see how their education connects to real-world public service.”
This enthusiasm demonstrates why GFOA's work extends beyond campus visits; it is about creating a lasting pathway for the next generation of public finance leaders.
GFOA introduced its Student Chapters initiative in 2018 to ultimately empower students to play an active role in shaping the future of public finance. In 2024 alone, the association awarded $105,000 in scholarships, with expectations to surpass that figure this year. “We want HBCU students to see government finance—not just as a career, but as a platform for driving equity, impact, and opportunity in their communities,” Mack reiterated.
Takeaways from the Alabama State University Visit
We were excited to welcome hundreds of students during our visit to Alabama State University, with more than 15 signing up through the GFOA portal to learn about internships, academic scholarships, and the PAFR Fellowship.
Students came prepared with resumes and were eager to engage—many even initiated on‑site interviews. Their curiosity, confidence, and professionalism shone throughout the event.
Meeting such motivated future leaders was inspiring, and we look forward to supporting their growth as they explore careers in public finance. - Thao Pham, GFOA Staff & Black Caucus Member
Takeaways from the Atlanta University Center Consortium (AUCC) Visit
Attending the Atlanta University Consortium career fair was one of the most memorable highlights of this year. Stepping onto the campuses of Clark Atlanta, Morehouse, and Spelman, we immediately felt the pride, history, and momentum that define these institutions.
Throughout the fair, we met students who were prepared, purposeful, and engaged—asking thoughtful questions, sharing their experiences, and speaking openly about their aspirations. The conversations felt less like quick career‑fair exchanges and more like genuine connections.
As we left, we were reminded why this outreach matters: staying engaged with schools like these not only supports the next generation of professionals but also ensures they see public finance as a field where they can lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact. - LaKisha McCrary, GFOA Staff & Black Caucus Member
Takeaways from the Jackson University Visit
Jackson State University offered a memorable experience—similar to the AUCC fair, but on a smaller, more personal scale. While students were a bit less assertive in approaching booths and overall awareness of public‑sector opportunities seemed lower, those we spoke with were genuinely appreciative and eager to learn once we shared information.
From the moment we arrived, JSU’s hospitality stood out. The campus was warm, welcoming, and open to the conversations we hoped to spark. - Randall Towns, GFOA Staff & Black Caucus Member
Takeaways from the Florida A&M University
The GFOA Black Caucus recently returned to Florida A&M University (FAMU)—the first Historically Black College and University to partner with GFOA, continuing a relationship that reflects the organization’s commitment to building the future pipeline of public finance professionals. During the most recent campus visit, GFOA representatives engaged with more than 50 FAMU students, introducing them to career pathways in government finance, leadership opportunities, and the professional development resources available through the association.
The visit also celebrated the growing impact of FAMU students within GFOA programs, including several who have successfully completed the Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR) Fellowship Program, an initiative that connects graduate students with local governments to develop accessible financial reports that strengthen transparency and civic understanding.
Through partnerships like the one with FAMU, the Black Caucus is doing more than recruiting future talent—it is creating sustained mentorship, hands‑on learning experiences, and real‑world opportunities that help HBCU students see public finance as a meaningful platform for leadership, service, and community impact.
Takeaways from Norfolk State University
The GFOA Black Caucus continues to expand its HBCU engagement strategy with the addition of Norfolk State University as its newest partner—an important milestone in strengthening the future talent pipeline in public finance. This partnership builds on years of outreach aimed at introducing students to careers in government finance and reflects the Caucus’ commitment to meeting students where they are, opening doors to public service leadership, and making the field more accessible.
During the visit, Norfolk State students had the chance to connect directly with GFOA Black Caucus staff, explore career possibilities, and learn about the professional development opportunities available through GFOA. Through campus engagement, networking, and exposure to GFOA programs and scholarships, students are gaining access to mentorship, hands‑on learning, and meaningful connections with professionals across the country.
As the Black Caucus continues to grow its HBCU network, the partnership with Norfolk State represents more than an expansion, it marks a new chapter focused on widening opportunity, elevating student voices, and empowering the next generation of public finance professionals to step into roles where they can strengthen communities and shape the future of public institutions.
