Karen Harrell, CGFO LA GFOA President Director of Finance City of Lake Charles

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as President of Louisiana GFOA. Our organization is vital to the continued education of all government financial professionals throughout the state. Having attended National GFOA last year, I came home with the feeling that we really do a great job in covering the topics that are relevant to our membership.

As we all know, there are ever-changing reporting requirements mandated by the various boards, such as GASB. We also have to keep up with changes in state laws, such as the recent change in the Local Budget Act. GFOA conferences afford members the opportunity to learn from experts in many different fields. The networking opportunities amongst our colleagues from around the state are invaluable.

The Winter Workshop was just held at the new Renaissance Hotel in Baton Rouge with 202 attending. Annually this workshop focuses on either beginning or intermediate governmental accounting for a day and then a technology initiative for the second day. Many governments mandate this training for their employees.

GFOA's spring conferences are held in a different city each year. Historically the conference is a day and half with general topics for all members. The 2012 spring conference is scheduled for April 25 – 27 at L'Auberge Casino in Lake Charles. Our speakers have been lined up and we will soon be sending out registration forms (and posting on the website). An off-site social is planned on Thursday at a local park. We will have good food and a relaxing venue to visit with our GFOA friends.

The fall conference is always held in Baton Rouge in early October for two and a half days. We have a few general sessions for all members, but many break-out sessions are provided so that our members can choose from a wide range of topics that are important to their government. Our annual meeting and election of officers is held at this conference. This year's 29th Annual GFOA Conference is scheduled for October 3rd through 5th at the Baton Rouge Crowne Plaza.

The GFOA board is made up of individuals from the various types of entities that we serve: municipalities, parishes, school boards, etc. I would like to thank our current board for their input in planning the 2012 conferences and all of their other duties. It's important that we select topics and speakers that will provide the best educational opportunities for all members.

I would also like to thank Lorrie Toups, our Past President for her service on the board as well as board members Karl Bruchhaus and Ruthie Davis who finished their terms in October 2011.

I encourage each of you to get involved with GFOA. Attend conferences, become a Certified Government Finance Office or offer to serve on the board. Most of all become acquainted with other folks from around the state that share your passion for serving Louisiana governments.

Looking forward to seeing you in Lake Charles!

Karen Harrell, CGFO
LA GFOA President
Director of Finance,
City of Lake Charles