GFOA Scholarship Spotlight: Sovandany Wang

Sovandany Wang is an accountant for the City of Los Alamitos, California, where she brings a sharp eye for detail and a genuine commitment to public service. Before joining the city, she worked at California State University, Long Beach as a student account technician, serving as a sponsored liaison and helping bridge communication between the university and its partner organizations. Beyond her professional career, Sovandany is deeply rooted in her community as she volunteers with Confluence Rising (formerly the California Conference for Equality and Justice), supporting programs that advance equity and empower local youth. When Sovandany's off the clock, you'll probably find her hosting her monthly book club or exploring new restaurants.  

Q & A with Sovandany

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

I am currently pursuing my master of public policy and administration at California State University, Long Beach. What drew me to the MPA program was the chance to connect what I’ve learned working in local and state organizations with the broader historical and emerging theories that shape public service. The program helps me understand not just how government operates, but why it operates the way it does. It also aligns closely with the career path I’m building which is centered on community service, equity, and strengthening public institutions.   

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

I love working in municipal government because it’s where I feel I truly belong. Working in a small city or town gives me the chance to take on a wide range of responsibilities, see the direct impact of my work, and contribute to solutions that make daily operations more efficient, especially within Finance. I’m project‑driven and naturally drawn to problem‑solving, so I enjoy finding ways to streamline processes and improve the technical side of financial work. 

What are your future career goals?

Looking ahead, I hope to grow into roles that allow me to work at a more granular, macro‑level within municipal finance. I want to deepen my technical expertise, take on larger responsibilities, and eventually step into a leadership role where I can inspire others to pursue careers in city government. To me, finance and accounting are more than numbers, they’re about building systems, solving problems, and supporting the community through thoughtful, effective public service. 

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

GFOA’s scholarship will make a tremendous difference in helping me complete my final year of the MPA program at California State University, Long Beach. It would relieve the financial pressure of tuition and allow me to stay focused on my education and professional growth. This support also carries deep personal meaning. My family has been navigating one of the most challenging seasons of our lives, as my mother is currently battling ovarian cancer. Being able to finish my degree and have her see me walk the stage would mean more than words can express. Receiving this scholarship will not only help me reach the finish line academically, but it will also open doors for future opportunities in municipal finance,  the field where I hope to build a long-term career and eventually step into leadership. I am truly grateful for the consideration, and it means so much to know that my story resonated with someone during the review process. Thank you for believing in me and supporting my path forward.