Jean Lane, WPFN President Elect

Business Service Manager, Grand Rapids Public Utilities, MN

Why is the 2023–2024 WPFN theme, “Preparing the Next Generation of Women Public Finance Officers,” important to you?

“This year’s theme was a suggestion from a very talented woman, discussed by a group of forward-thinking women, and I agree wholeheartedly and support the theme. 

When I introduce myself now, I say that ‘I am more towards the end of my career than at the beginning of my career.’ What I don’t say is, ‘this is the time for me to give back to you the next generation of women who will fill the shoes.’ I would like to share what I have learned throughout my career, so you have the opportunity and support to be as successful as possible.”

Why do you think the 2023–2024 WPFN theme, “Preparing the Next Generation of Women Public Finance Officers,” is important for WPFN?

"I am so thankful for WPFN and the resources available for women in public finance to ask and receive comments, advice, thoughts, practices, suggestions, experiences, and to act as a sounding board by way of WPFN communications, mentorship, and programming committee activities. These WPFN committee activities for the next year will focus on the theme, 'Preparing the Next Generation of Women Public Finance Officers.'

GFOA has always been the ‘go-to’ organization to belong and WPFN is the ‘must go to.’ Please consider taking advantage of the member benefits of WPFN or become a member now and prepare to become the next generation of women public finance officers!”