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For more than 80 years, the Vinson Institute has worked with public officials throughout Georgia and around the world to improve governance and people's lives. From Georgia's early days as a largely agrarian state with a modest population to its modern-day status as a national and international force in business, industry, and politics with a population of almost 10 million, the Institute has helped government leaders navigate change and forge strong directions for a better Georgia.
In the Spotlight > Local Officials Learn Sound Financial Management through Certificate Program

Local Officials Learn Sound Financial Management through Certificate Program

Posted February 24, 2012
Contact: Courtney Yarbrough, cryarb@uga.edu; 706.542.6221

In recognition of their continuing education in governmental accounting principles, 18 local government officials earned either their Level 1 or 2 certified finance officer status from the Vinson Institute's financial management training program in the final quarter of 2011.

The Institute's financial management training provides city and county officials with the information and tools they need to establish sound accounting practices and strong financial foundations in their governments. Level I certification requires individuals to participate in 108 hours of instruction about the intricacies of government budgeting, purchasing, accounting, and other public finance topics. Level II Certified Financial Officers receive an additional 84 hours of instruction in intermediate governmental accounting and budgeting principles, internal controls, and revenue administration as well as public finance electives.

The Institute also works with state finance officers through the state financial management certificate program.

Graduates October-December 2011

Level I Certified Finance Officer
Valerie Adams, Gwinnett County Department of Transportation
Patsy Browning, Stephens County Board of Commissioners
Darla Davenport, Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners
Melissa Forrester, City of Canton
Jay Howard, Gwinnett County Department of Transportation
Linda Lucas, City of Pooler
Tammie Martin, Gwinnett County Department of Transportation
Priscilla Murphy, City of Jefferson
Pamala Orgera, Gwinnett County Department of Transportation
William Rodenbeck, Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners
June Stancil, Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners
Linda Weeks, Gwinnett County Public Schools
Freda Williams, Haralson County Water Authority

Level II Certified Finance Officer
Shannon Baker, Gwinnett County Fire & Emergency Services
Faye Harvey, Gilmer County Board of Commissioners
Joyce Martin, Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners
Andrea Mitchell, City of Statesboro
Susan VanNus, City of Suwanee

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