From STAFF REPORTS

AMERICUS – Diadra Powell recently earned Local Finance Officer Certification in the third quarter of 2016 through the Carl Vinson Institute of Government’s financial management training program.
Powell, who works with the City of Americus, was recognized with Level I certification for pursuing professional development in governmental finance, accounting, budgeting, and more.
Level I certification requires finance officers to participate in 108 hours of instruction about the intricacies of government budgeting, purchasing, accounting, and other public finance topics. Level II Certified Financial Officers receive an additional 84 hours of instruction in intermediate governmental accounting and budgeting principles, internal controls, and revenue administration as well as public finance electives.
Thirteen local officials from around the state earned their Level I or Level II Local Finance Officer Certification in the third quarter through the Institute of Government.
“These community leaders strengthened the skills they need to maintain sound accounting practices and build strong financial foundations for their governments,” said Tracy Arner, the Institute’s financial management training program manager.
Since the program’s inception in 1972, more than 1,500 local finance officers and others have graduated with certificates and over 3,500 have received training. The Institute also works with state financial officers through the state financial management program.
“Earning certification shows that these finance officials are committed to continually improving their skills and make them better equipped to help their local government operate more effectively,” said Institute Director Laura Meadows.
The Carl Vinson Institute of Government is a UGA Public Service and Outreach unit that offers training and technical assistance and conducts applied research to help local and state governments operate efficiently and effectively and provide improved service to the public.