GFOA Scholarship Spotlight: Anne Cantrell

Anne Cantrell currently serves as the Finance Director/Treasurer for the Town of Bedford, Virginia. Cantrell graduated from Liberty High School in Bedford, Virginia, and is honored to have the opportunity to serve her hometown community. She has spent the past 11 years working in local government finance and is an actively licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the State of Virginia. In 2022, Cantrell completed the Virginia Government Finance Officers’ Association (VGFOA) certificate program. Earlier last year, Cantrell began pursuing a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree through the Helms School of Government at Liberty University. She plans to complete her degree and continue investing her time in local government and the finance network through GFOA and VGFOA.

Q & A with Anne

Where and what are you currently studying, and why did you choose this?

I’m currently studying for a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree through Liberty University which is located in Lynchburg, Virginia. While working as the Finance Director/Treasurer for a small town, I feel that it is important for me to continue to develop my knowledge and skills of public administration. The MPA program will provide me additional public administration tools that will benefit both my department and the Town as a whole.  

What government are you working in or hope to work at in the future?

I currently work at the Town of Bedford, Virginia. Bedford is a beautiful community located in the heart of Virginia, and I could not ask for a better place to work and raise a family. I am passionate about supporting small communities and using financial analysis to support the goals of the community while focusing on financial sustainability.  

What are your future career goals?

I would like to continue to grow within my current position and reach my full potential as Finance Director/Treasurer. I would also like to support and invest in my team members and members of the finance network as they continue to grow in their knowledge and skills. 

How will GFOA’s scholarship help you achieve those goals?

This scholarship opportunity has been a blessing both personally and professionally. I will now be able to take more classes each year and finish my degree much sooner than I originally anticipated. I am extremely grateful for the investment from GFOA towards my MPA, and the opportunity to attend the annual conference for the first time.