WPFN Member Spotlight: Daisy Torres

This month we’re highlighting WPFN Member Daisy Torres, finance and budget director for Harris County Public Library in Houston, Texas.

How has someone in the public finance community helped you rise in your career—and how do you pay that forward?

My father, Raul Camarillo, Jr., has been one of the biggest influences in my public finance career. He also worked in public finance for Harris County, and I remember how much he genuinely enjoyed his work, which I saw firsthand when I participated in “Take Your Child to Work Day.” Watching his commitment to public service showed me that there are many ways to serve a community, and public finance became one meaningful way for me to do that. 

He consistently encouraged me to keep learning and was the first to introduce me to GFOA. Through GFOA, I discovered the WPFN mentorship program and was matched with my mentor, Sheila Briesch, who has since become a trusted colleague and friend. We meet regularly and talk about everything from career development to broader professional challenges. Her encouragement played a significant role in my decision to begin the CPFO program. 

I pay that forward by being open to conversations with others who want to grow in their careers. I enjoy sharing guidance, whether it’s about education, professional development, or career decisions, because many people are capable of doing great things and sometimes need a little encouragement to take the next step. 

What’s one way you build or contribute to community—at work or outside of it?

At work, I focus on collaboration and openly sharing my knowledge so we can make informed, strategic decisions together. I believe that strong relationships and clear communication are essential to building an effective and supportive workplace. I’ve always been intentional about creating an environment where people can thrive and support one another when needed, and I strive to foster a strong sense of teamwork within my finance department. 

I also value contributing through networking groups like WPFN, where collaboration and shared learning strengthen the public finance profession as a whole. Serving on the WPFN Education and Programming Committee has been a meaningful way for me to help create opportunities for connection, learning, and growth across the public finance community. 

What activity, hobby, or interest helps you recharge and show up strong for others?

Spending time with my family is what helps me recharge the most. We enjoy fishing, taking road trips, and traveling together, especially cruising when we can. Those experiences help me slow down, reconnect, and gain perspective.  

I also enjoy listening to podcasts on faith, communication, and leadership. They help me stay curious, reflective, and grounded, and allow me to bring renewed focus and energy back to my work and to the people I serve.