The Fiscal Forum Newsletter is your monthly roundup of FGFOA news, events, and resources. Published on the first Monday of each month at 2:00 PM, the newsletter offers regular updates and highlights that help you stay connected to what’s happening across the organization.
Spotlight on Leadership
Nicole Jovanovski
FGFOA Board Director
With over twenty-two years of experience in governmental accounting and financial management, Nicole Jovanovski has built a career grounded in integrity, service, and professional growth. She began her journey in 2003 as a Financial Accounting Analyst at the Office of the Honorable Karen E. Rushing, Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller, and now serves as Director of Finance, where she leads financial operations and board services. Known for her commitment to excellence and her passion for helping others succeed, Nicole continues to inspire through her leadership and mentorship.
Reflecting on her FGFOA journey, Nicole shares:
“Joining the FGFOA has been one of the best opportunities in my career. What started as a way to stay informed and grow professionally quickly became a deeper journey of connection, mentorship, and shared purpose. The relationships and experiences I’ve gained through FGFOA have been truly invaluable.”
Mentoring Program
The 2025–2026 FGFOA Mentoring Program is underway with 21 Mentors and Mentees this fall and 5 more pairs joining in January!
Kickoff Session: FGFOA President Nicole Gaspari led “All Things Mentoring,” exploring Emotional Intelligence, Values, and setting the stage for growth and accountability.
First Meetup: Held October 15th, featuring Darrel Thomas on growing through mentoring and
FGFOA engagement, followed by breakout discussions.
Get Involved: Interested in giving back or growing your leadership skills? Apply to be a Mentor for the January start and help guide the next generation of government finance professionals!
Member Spotlight Nominations
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond? A mentor, colleague, or chapter leader who deserves to be recognized? Nominate them for the FGFOA Member Spotlight! It only takes a few minutes, and your nomination could help highlight the inspiring work of a fellow member.
National Anthem Auditions Open!
Call for Singers
The Florida Government Finance Officers Association (FGFOA) is seeking a member to perform the National Anthem during the Opening General Session of the 2026 Annual Conference, taking place June 13–17, 2026, at the Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando.
This performance is a special opportunity to represent the Association and set an inspiring tone as we open our signature annual event.
Submission Deadline: Friday, January 16, 2026
Interested members are invited to submit a brief vocal audition video (no more than 60 seconds) here.
We look forward to showcasing the talent and professionalism of our FGFOA membership at this year’s conference.
Virtual Learning Opportunities
Upcoming Webinars
November 20, 2025
Webinar: Pension and OPEB Refresher
Time: 2:00–3:40 p.m. Eastern
CPE Credit: 1.5 hours (Technical/Business)
FREE registration for current FGFOA members!
December 18, 2025
Webinar: Artificial Intelligence in Government Finance Update
Time: 2:00–3:40 p.m. Eastern
CPE Credit: 1.5 hours (Technical/Business)
FREE registration for current FGFOA members!
Visit the FGFOA Webinar page and click “Register Now” or log in to your member portal and go to the “Events” tab.
Don’t miss these valuable learning opportunities!
Looking for Additional Ethics CPE Opportunities?
The Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA) is offering “FICPA Ethics: Protecting the Integrity of the Florida CPAs,” created with the DBPR and approved by the Florida Board of Accountancy. Sessions are available online, in-person, and on-site (live or virtually).
Upcoming Dates:
Oct. 6 | Online | 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
Oct. 16 | Online | 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
Oct. 22 | Jacksonville (In Person) | 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Nov. 6 | Online | 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
Nov. 17 | Miami Beach (In Person) | 12:30–5 p.m.
Nov. 19 | Online | 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
Dec. 4 | Online | 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
Dec. 18 | Online | 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
FGFOA 2026 Leadership Program
Applications for FGFOA Leadership 2026 are now open. This immersive, five-day program is designed to elevate your leadership skills, expand your professional network, and prepare you to lead in Florida’s government finance community.
Program Dates: April 13–17, 2026
Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando
Member Cost: $1,495 (subsidized from $3,000)
Application Deadline: January 9, 2026
FGFOA Leadership Program
Government Finance Professionals Week
Mark your calendars!
Government Finance Professionals Week will be celebrated March 16–20, 2026!
This weeklong event recognizes the hard work, dedication, and leadership of government finance professionals and the vital services they provide to our communities.
FGFOA has released a 2026 Toolkit with resources to make it easy to participate, including:
- A sample proclamation
- A sample media release
- Social media content and engagement tips
- Fun games and team activities
Let’s take this opportunity to honor the people behind the numbers who keep our communities moving forward!
Explore the Toolkit and Resources Here
et’s take this opportunity to honor the people behind the numbers who keep our communities moving forward!
Events and Deadlines
The next FGFOA Beginner Boot Camp will be held at:
Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando – Lake Buena Vista
Monday, January 12 & Tuesday, January 13, 2026
Registration closes Friday, November 21, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
For More Information about FGFOA Beginner Boot Camp and How to Register
Finance in a Flash!
Resource Spotlight: Property Tax Information Made Simple
Looking for clear, accessible information on property taxes and how they impact your community? The Florida League of Cities (FLC) has developed the Florida Formula Toolkit, an online resource designed to help local officials and finance professionals understand the components of municipal revenue, including property taxes.
The toolkit provides easy-to-follow explanations, data visuals, and downloadable resources that outline how property taxes are calculated and used to fund essential city services.
GFOA State Representative Program
The GFOA State Representative Program plays a key role in promoting recognition of excellence in financial reporting throughout Florida. These dedicated volunteers may be called upon to present GFOA’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting (ACFR), Popular Annual Financial Reporting (PAFR), and Distinguished Budget Presentation Awards before local Commissions, Councils, or Boards.
The primary goal of this program is to establish a geographically diverse network of representatives to ensure timely award presentations and strengthen community engagement. Each local chapter of the FGFOA is encouraged to appoint one or more GFOA Representatives to support this important initiative and help build a robust presence throughout the state.
Have an upcoming award presentation?
Please refer to the list of available GFOA State Representatives on the FGFOA website and feel free to reach out to a representative in your area to coordinate presentation logistics:
If you have any questions, please contact Karen Pastula for additional information.
Together, we can continue to celebrate the achievements of Florida’s government finance professionals.
Local Chapter News
FGFOA’s local chapters are the heartbeat of our organization, offering members valuable opportunities to connect, learn, and grow within their own communities. These events range from professional development sessions and technical trainings to networking socials and community outreach initiatives.
Attending your local chapter events is a great way to stay engaged, expand your professional network, and share ideas with peers who understand the challenges and opportunities of government finance. Be sure to check your Local Chapter Calendar for upcoming local chapter events and opportunities to engage with your peers.
Volusia/Flagler Chapter
The Volusia/Flagler Chapter welcomed John McKinney, Chair of the FGFOA Certification Committee, as their guest speaker on Friday, October 17. John provided an informative presentation on the Certified Government Finance Officer (CGFO) certification process, including an overview of the five exam sections, timelines for submitting applications, review courses, and testing procedures.
In addition, John shared information about the many leadership and professional development opportunities available through FGFOA, such as the Mentoring Program, webinars, Boot Camps, the Annual Conference, and the School of Government Finance.
The meeting was well-attended by representatives from cities across Volusia, Flagler, and Lake Counties, and provided an excellent opportunity for local finance professionals to connect and learn more about the resources available through FGFOA.
FGFOA’s local chapters are the heartbeat of our organization, offering members valuable opportunities to connect, learn, and grow within their own communities. These events range from professional development sessions and technical trainings to networking socials and community outreach initiatives.
Attending your local chapter events is a great way to stay engaged, expand your professional network, and share ideas with peers who understand the challenges and opportunities of government finance. Be sure to check your Local Chapter Calendar for upcoming local chapter events and opportunities to engage with your peers.
Monthly Events Preview
Stay up to date with what’s happening across FGFOA! The Upcoming Webinar Schedule can be found on our website.
How do I register for FGFOA Events?
- Log into your FGFOA member portal
- Go all the way to the very top. You’ll see the “event” tab. (Don’t hover over it, just click on it.) That will open up all of the events that are open for registration.
- Click on the hyperlink of the event you want to attend.