GFOA Scholarship Spotlight: Ousman Darboe

Ousman Darboe is a senior budget and policy analyst at Madison College in Madison, Wisconsin, where he supports strategic decision-making through budget development, financial forecasting, and policy analysis. Previously, he worked as a management accountant at the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, building experience in budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance. He is currently pursuing an MBA with an emphasis in accounting at Edgewood University and expects to graduate in Fall 2026, with a goal of advancing into a leadership role in public finance.

In addition to his professional work, Ousman has served as Co-Chair of the City of Madison Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Committee for four years, helping guide the allocation of federal funds for housing and community development initiatives.

Q & A with Ousman

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

I am currently pursuing a master of business administration (MBA) with an emphasis in accounting at Edgewood University in Madison, Wisconsin. I chose this field to strengthen my expertise in financial management, strategic decision-making, and leadership within the public sector. My academic focus builds on my undergraduate degree in accounting and aligns with my professional experience in budgeting and fiscal policy. The program equips me with advanced analytical and managerial skills needed to effectively allocate resources, evaluate financial performance, and support long-term sustainability. I am particularly interested in using financial data to inform policy decisions and improve transparency and accountability in government operations. 

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

I currently work in higher education at Madison College as a senior budget and policy analyst, and I previously worked in state government with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. In the future, I aim to continue serving in state or local government, where I can contribute to public financial management at a leadership level. I am especially interested in roles that influence budget development, fiscal policy, and resource allocation. My experience across both state government and local institutions has given me a strong foundation, and I plan to build on that to support transparent, accountable, and community-focused government operations. 

What are your future career goals?

My long-term career goal is to become a Budget Director in state or local government. In this role, I aim to lead the development and management of budgets that are fiscally responsible, transparent, and aligned with community priorities. I am committed to integrating financial analysis with policy development to ensure effective and equitable use of public resources. I also aspire to lead diverse teams, improve budgeting processes, and strengthen public trust through accountability and clear communication. Ultimately, I want to contribute to building sustainable financial strategies that support economic growth and improve outcomes for underserved communities. 

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

GFOA’s scholarship will provide critical financial support that allows me to continue my graduate education and further develop the skills necessary for a leadership role in public finance. It will enable me to focus more on my studies and professional growth without financial strain. Additionally, being recognized by GFOA will connect me to a network of public finance professionals and best practices in government budgeting. This support will enhance my ability to apply advanced financial and policy analysis in my work and accelerate my progress toward becoming a budget director committed to fiscal responsibility and community impact.