Black History Month - 2024
"WCW" - Women Celebrating Women
Northeast Women in Public Finance would like to highlight and acknowledge accomplished Black Women all over our industry who continuously crush goals and glass ceilings. This is our small way to celebrate the contributions of some of the extraordinary Black Women who everyone should know.
For Black History Month we will be highlighting two women per week.
WEEK ONE
WEEK TWO
JEANETTE WELDON
About me:
My career in public finance has been varied. I began as an analyst at Moody's Investors Service as a member of the healthcare ratings group. After about six years at Moody's and a relocation to eastern Connecticut for family reasons, I worked for a regional investment bank, as a financial advisor with P.G. Corbin & Company, as a community hospital CFO, and then joined CHEFA about 15 years ago. I have served as Executive Director of CHEFA and its subsidiaries for 9 years.
On being a Black woman in this industry:
I feel that the public finance industry has provided a lot of opportunity to me as a Black woman. That is not to say that there have not been obstacles or misperceptions of me along the way. It was not that long ago that I was presumed to be an administrative assistant during an in-person closing (no disrespect to administrative assistants), despite being a senior executive at the time. Nevertheless, I feel that working in public finance has been an inspiring and rewarding experience. I have had the opportunity to work on financings that have societal impact, and to work with trailblazing, entrepreneurial Black women like Pat Corbin, the late founder of P.G. Corbin & Company. As I look back on my decades-long career, I am very glad that I chose the public finance industry.
Fun fact:
I grew up in a small town in eastern Connecticut where my father raised cows, pigs, and chickens as a hobby. We also had a horse and a roaming flock of geese!
Favorite advice:
I think I have benefited from the attitude that my parents raised me with. My father instilled in us a strong sense of family pride, and my mother was a role model for asserting myself when being challenged. My advice to those entering the industry would be don't be afraid to speak up and be heard.
EVETTE EVANS CAZE
About me:
 I have served as a Director in Fitch Ratings’ Public Finance Department since 2011. In 2022 I became regional manager of the local government mid-Atlantic group focusing on credit ratings for local governments in Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina. Additionally, as of 2020 I have been serving as the chairperson of the core working group for the development of Fitch's Local Government Rating Model and criteria.Prior to joining Fitch, I served as an Assistant Vice President at several bond insurers, as an underwriter and as an analyst in risk management. I started my analytical career at Moody's Investors Service in the local governments group.I received my B.A. in Finance from New York University's Stern School of Business and M.S. in Public and Urban Policy from The New School Milano Graduate School of International Affairs, Management and Urban Policy.
On being a Black woman in this industry:
When I started my career in public finance I was one of only a few black women that held a position as an analyst in public finance with no black women in senior positions. At Fitch there is a sizable number of senior women in public finance, however, there is not a senior Black woman. Given the recent evolution of my career at Fitch I believe it is my duty to be role model at Fitch and to continue to move forward with a goal of becoming a senior member of Fitch's analytical team. I have to acknowledge my senior leaders Laura Porter and Arlene Bohner for recognizing my potential and giving me the opportunity to evolve and trusting in me to move our group forward with criteria and model development. What does it mean to be a Black woman in this industry - To be strong, humble, elegant, competitive and gracious.
Fun fact:
I have four kidneys.
Favorite advice:
SPEAK! You are worthy of being heard.
VALERIE D. WHITE
About me:
 I lead LISC NY's statewide efforts to create an economic and community development ecosystem that addresses deep rooted systemic inequities. Through significant capital investment across NYS, policy and legislative advocacy, and programmatic initiative design and delivery, my team and I elevate LISC NY's role as leader in economic development among legislative, government, private sector, philanthropic, and nonprofit/community partner stakeholders across New York. It is an exciting and rewarding opportunity that culminates my extensive experience in the public and nonprofit sectors to bring social impact investing and social justice to traditionally disinvested communities, and populations that have been marginalized.
On being a Black woman in this industry:
Black women in this industry carry the responsibility to ensure that equity and equal access to capital and financial support is prevalent in capital deployment and investment. This all the while facing the inequities that have historically been present in the industry for both Black people and women. It is important for us to remain vigilant in carrying out complex strategies and creative concepts to stand up products and services that promote equal opportunities and wealth attainment for all. We must also remain resilient as we carry on in our work while navigating systemic barriers that have been in place for Black women.
Fun fact:
I had the honor and privilege to be included in the inaugural exhibit and book by photographer Claire Fisher ‘The Women of 50 over 50.' (https://www.clarefisher.com/valerie-white/) This photography project celebrated women in the milestone period of their lives. It was incredible to be among such an esteemed group of women from various industries, cultures, races, and walks of life, and to embrace the strength gained by living as a woman and experiencing society’s changes for more than five decades.
Favorite advice:
My Dad, who was my closest career strategy and advisor coach, always told me to not only hear, but listen—particularly in negotiation scenarios. Do extensive research. Understand not only the words that are being said, but equally as important the unspoken messaging. He always reminded me if I processed both before deciding how to react and/or respond, and had been prepared with research, I will always be in best place to achieve my goal.
MEL BROWN
About me:
 About a decade ago, after finishing my Masters, I launched into public finance working with S&P Global. I started out covering local government ratings, and later branched out into education. I spent some time on the buy side working as an analyst at Northern Trust in asset management where I analyzed issuers from investment grade to high yield, spanning the public finance market (healthcare, education, project finance, local government, utilities, transportation, etc.). Since returning to S&P, my work is focused primarily on charter schools, private k-12, and community colleges. I am also actively involved in the company’s DEI efforts and recently joined the board of an employee resource group aimed at fostering belonging and community at the multicultural intersections of our identities.
On being a Black woman in this industry:
Early on, I had many Black role models in community development; and much like them, I desired to contribute to society in a way that future generations would be proud of. It ultimately led me to public finance. It has been a really rewarding experience to have a seat at the table in conversations that are helping to shape our communities for decades to come. When I look at my nieces and nephews and the world they will inherit, I am always reminded of this “why”.
Fun fact:
I hold a Level II Award in wine from the Wine and Spirit Education Trust. I probably get as excited talking about wine as I do about public finance. Several years ago I realized that I was pretty good at pinpointing various notes and aromas, and my curiosity continued from there. Recently, I learned that I have a familial connection to viticulture and wine making, so that has been pretty special to feel connected to my ancestry in this way.
Favorite advice:
The light of the sun was never meant to fit into the lantern on the nightstand. Choose to be as intense and as bright as the stars you were made from.
LISA R. HALEY
About me:
 I began my public finance journey as a management and budget analyst. I continued working on my skills and knowledge in public finance and was appointed the Town’s first Treasury Officer in 2015. In this role I am responsible for debt and investment management, budget, and revenue collections. In 2018 I received my Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO) credential from the Government Finance Officer’s Association.
On being a Black woman in this industry:
I’m a second-generation public servant, so service is a part of my family heritage. I count it a privilege to showcase excellence with joy in stewarding public funds on behalf of the Town. As a black woman, I strive to lead by example in service to my community in the hopes of elevating what is possible to those who come behind me.
Fun fact:
I’m an avid sports enthusiast who recently competed in my first Senior Games in road racing and time trial.
Favorite advice:
Invest in mentors who have breakthrough because you can’t give what you don’t have. One of mine often says, “when you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”
LADUNNI OKOLO
About me:
 I’m currently a director in the States and Transportation group serving as a lead analyst and primary for several states and transportation issuers. As a lead analyst, I mentor other analysts, represent my team to internal and external stakeholders, and serve as subject matter expert on criteria. I also author thought pieces and various sector wide reports.
Of my 15 years of public finance experience, 12 years have with S&P Global in various roles including covering ratings across US Public Finance like tax-increment districts, municipal utilities, municipal pools, and general obligation debt. My time at S&P Global has been extremely rewarding and I am inspired to work in a supportive but stimulating culture. Prior to joining S&P Global, I began my career at the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, the largest power generating company for the West African region, focusing on financial analysis of various mergers, acquisition and expansion projects across West Africa. I also worked as an Analyst with Rosenow Spevacek Group, a consulting firm where I worked with various communities in California to create customized solutions for various financial and economic goals.
On being a Black woman in this industry:
While I deserve to be in every room professionally, I understand that it is a privilege that comes with a responsibility to pay it forward. My goal is to keep every door I walk through open, open it wider for those coming behind me, and strive to make an indelible impact in every room I find myself.
Fun fact:
I love to travel and stretch my limits physically. One of my proudest experiences is completing the Everest base trek.
Favorite advice:
Life is both too short and too long to do it afraid. Give yourself the gift of exploring every dream, learning something new, and immersing in every experience.
CATHY R. WILLIAMS
About me:
 I am currently the Chief Financial Officer for the Illinois Tollway, an essential road system serving more than an average of 1.5 million daily drivers in the greater metropolitan Chicago area. I am responsible all functions related to the Tollway's financial operations as well as oversight and management of the Tollway’s $15 billion long term financial plan, and $450 million operating budget.
Prior to joining the Tollway, I held several senior roles at JP Morgan (and predecessor banks) in private equity and treasury management, as well as several accounting and internal and external audit positions with financial regulatory agencies and public accounting firms. I earned an MBA in Finance from the University of Chicago, a BS in Accounting from Roosevelt University and a CPA from the state of Illinois.
On being a Black woman in this industry:
Being a Black woman in this industry involves navigating through unique challenges and requires preparation, resilience and having access to a good mentor. It also presents an opportunity to contribute a valuable perspective and focus on creating environments where we can perform to our potential. It also provides an opportunity to create a pipeline for other Black women who may require mentorship.
Fun Fact:
I developed a strong interest in photography after taking a few classes. I’ve taken time out on many occasions to capture beautiful scenic moments.
Favorite advice:
Don’t get distracted from your goals. Take advantage of every opportunity to invest in yourself and enhance your skills. This could mean working on special projects, taking specialized training courses, getting an advanced degree, or achieving professional designations.
SOPHIA E. LOVE
About me:
 In my current role, I provide expert level advisory guidance to not-for-profit entities such as healthcare systems, colleges and universities, and other non-profit organizations. As a credit officer, I evaluate and analyze risks, develop and implement an overall relationship plan with focus on immediate and future credit solutions and financing needs. I am charged with the growth and active management of asset quality of a $1.2B credit portfolio.
I have been in the financial services industry for over 20 years having served as a senior relationship manager, senior underwriter, corporate finance associate and senior accountant at Northern Trust, LaSalle Bank and GE Capital to name a few. I hold an MBA in Finance, Marketing & Management Strategy from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Hofstra University. I am FINRA Registered Representative and hold Series 7 and 63 securities licenses.
On being a Black woman in this industry:
It means I can be one more example of what is possible as it relates to a career path. It’s important to me to be a mentor and advocate and to let women know the path is not always clearly defined. Don’t be deterred if you are “one of a kind” in the room.
Fun Fact:
I love all genres of music, but I am in love with country music, it just speaks to me.
Favorite advice:
Every experience counts, don’t downplay yours.
SIDNEY COVINGTON
About me:
 I have been in the financial services industry for over 20 years having served as a senior relationship manager, senior underwriter, corporate finance associate and senior accountant at Northern Trust, LaSalle Bank and GE Capital to name a few. I hold an MBA in Finance, Marketing & Management Strategy from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Hofstra University. I am FINRA Registered Representative and hold Series 7 and 63 securities licenses
My unexpected career pivot to the financial services industry came after working in government and non-profit roles that primarily focused on supporting veterans as they navigated various transitions in their lives. I’m a Army Veteran, and I deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. I hold an MSW from New York University and am a licensed social worker in the state of Illinois. I am also a FINRA Registered Representative and hold a Series 7 license.
Fun Fact:
Upon moving back to the Chicagoland area, I decided to pursue a childhood dream of learning how to figure skate. The experience of learning to figure skate alongside other adult learners has been incredibly enjoyable.
Favorite advice:
You’re never too old to reinvent yourself.
|
