Under the guidance of a skilled CFO, Gwen started looking at how the district was expending funds and putting more money into contingency/surplus. The stimulus money created by reducing departmental spending allowed CUSD 60 to convert the $12M education deficit to a $12M surplus and the $4M transportation deficit to a $4M surplus.
This success has led to multiple milestone achievements for the district — including a massive bond issue and grant leading to a $42M expansion of 12 schools. They were able to increase their S&P rating up to an A, which they’ve kept until today even through turbulent times in school finance.
Now the Assoc. Supt./Business & Financial Services, Gwen believes her military experience has contributed to her success. “During the 14 years I worked in the military operations office, we always strategized, budgeted, acted and reacted based on planned actions. I wanted to infuse this experience into the finances of the district. Part of this was moving to a strategic mindset and a zero-based budgeting model.”
The Foundation Monarch Award is one of the highest honors that Illinois ASBO bestows upon its members, and a celebration of the best school business management has to offer. The award was presented to Gwendolyn at the Opening General Session of the 2018 Annual Conference.