Molly Talkington, WPFN Vice President

Finance Director, City of Rolling Meadows, IL

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

“I strongly believe that encouraging and incorporating more women in the profession will continue to advance women. The public sector has been a great avenue for women to succeed especially in comparison to the private sector. We need to share our combined knowledge, experience, and aspirations to ‘Prepare the Next Generation of Women Public Finance Officers.’”

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

“WPFN promotes women in the profession. The network offers a Mentorship Program that facilitates a learning opportunity to help guide newer professionals in their career. I have two mentees through this program and find that I learn just as much from them as they do from me. When we share our stories of courage, success, and determination, we add tools to the next generation’s toolbox and slowly break down more barriers for women in the profession.”

How can we keep the positive momentum going in WPFN?

“We can remind WPFN members that their voice matters and that their input is valuable. We encourage members to talk to their peers whether at the GFOA Annual Conference or at training courses. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. It is uncomfortable to step outside of your routine, yet this is what we, as WPFN members, need to reach, encourage, and attract new members to the profession and to WPFN. Every voice matters.”