CGFM News

CGFM News

Earning the CGFM and Spreading the Word

When state of = Michigan employee Doreen Brown earned her CGFM certification, she naturally wanted h= er immediate supervisor to know about it. But she didn't stop there, asking AG= A to also notify other top state officials, including the governor herself.=

Brown, who is an accounting manager for the Michigan Departm= ent of Management and Budget's Financial Services Division, said her goal was to spread the word about AGA's certification progr= am.

After passing all three CGFM examinations, her achievement w= as announced at a staff meeting of 80 employees, it was written up in the local newspaper, and she received a letter of congratulations from Governor Jenni= fer M. Granholm.

"Serving the public is one of the noblest occupations o= ne can choose, and your career doing so speaks volumes about the greatness of = your character," Granholm wrote. "From the beginning, your record of dedication shines brightly and this achievement is just another highlight in your already outstanding career." Granholm went on, "Greek dramatist Sophocles once said, 'Success is dependent on effort.' Judging from the consistent quality work and the unwavering commitment you have demonstrated over the years, you are a model of effort and example of success."

New CGFMs can follow Brown's exa= mple. Consider announcing the accomplishment to the governor, treasurer, controll= er and/or state auditor. AGA sends out information about the CGFM with every personalized letter that is sent. It's a great way to raise awareness of the CGFM designation.

Brown noted that Granholm had previously shown support for the CGFM by signing a proclamation naming Marc= h as CGFM Month in Michigan. Brown's Greater Lansing Chapter has also been active in encouraging members= to earn their CGFM. In fact, the chapter reimbursed Brown for $500 of the cost= s of her examination fees and preparation materials.

Howard Pizzo, Past Chapter Presi= dent and Director of Financial Services, is also a new CGFM, having earned his certification during the Professional Development Conference & Expositi= on in Florida in July. Pizzo and other chapter members are activ= ely promoting the CGFM in Michiga= n, and Brown is helping co-workers who are studying to earn their certificatio= n. "We have a lot of interest," she said.

If you are a new CGFM, be sure to fill out and return your supervisor notification form to the National Office so we can notify others= of your accomplishment. The forms are mailed with the new CGFM award packages.= AGA chapters can contact Katya Silver (ksilver@agacgfm.org) about ways to recognize new CGFM= s and educate others about the CGFM certification.

By: Christina M. Camara