How quickly a year goes by! It seems like we were just together for the annual conference last summer, and now the 2025 conference is just around the corner. I am thrilled to invite you to join me and my fellow hosts here in Boise, Idaho, this August 17-20. We have an exceptional lineup of technical sessions, networking opportunities, and professional development events planned that I know you'll find valuable.

I'd like to take a moment to reflect on some of the major accomplishments we've achieved together this year:

• Participated in federal working groups, providing a state perspective on issues such as the Compliance Supplement, Single Audit, and pandemic and infrastructure funding; also met with the U.S. Department of the Treasury regarding pandemic reporting. 
• Monitored evolving federal legislation affecting state financial management and collaborated with federal agencies and other state and local organizations on implementation efforts.
• Responded to four exposure drafts from the Governmental Accounting Standards Board, provided recaps of GASB meetings, and maintained a leadership presence on the Governmental Accounting Standards Advisory Council.
• Through the state auditors, responded to two exposure drafts from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, as well as two additional drafts issued jointly by the AICPA and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy.
• Delivered in-person training across the nation—including in Harrisburg, PA; Evansville, IN; Denver, CO; Nashville, TN; East Lansing, MI; and Boise, ID—and provided virtual training to over 8,000 participants through the webinar series.
• Offered professional development and information-sharing opportunities through committees and groups focused on a range of specialized areas relevant to member interests and needs.

Before highlighting our forward momentum, I want to recognize a significant transition in our association's leadership. After years of dedicated service, Kinney Poynter retired as Executive Director of NASACT. Kinney's contributions to our organization and the broader state government financial management community have been immeasurable. His leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence have strengthened NASACT and positioned us well for the future. We owe him a tremendous debt of gratitude for his service.

At the same time, I'm excited about the energy and fresh perspective that Josh Winfrey brings as our new Executive Director. Josh and his team have already demonstrated their commitment to continuing NASACT's tradition of excellence while exploring new opportunities to serve our members. Their dedication to supporting our mission is evident in the quality of programs and services we continue to provide.

Looking back is important, but I also want to be sure that we are looking forward. Technical issues, new standards, evolving regulations – these are the realities of state government financial management. But there are other, equally important considerations:

• How do we continue to develop the next generation of leaders in our field? The challenges facing state government finance will require innovative thinking and fresh perspectives from those who will succeed us.
• How do we continue to attract talented individuals to careers in state government financial management and maintain their engagement with our association?
• How do we leverage our collective strength as an association? Together, we have a powerful voice and through NASACT, a strong platform to influence the standards and practices that shape our profession.

NASACT is only as strong as its members, and in that regard, we are incredibly strong. It has been wonderful to see the numerous individual and collective contributions over the past year. The dedication of our members serving on committees, participating in working groups, and supporting each other professionally never ceases to amaze me.

There are so many people to thank, and I won't attempt to name them all here. But you can rest assured that we have talented, committed members who are the backbone of this organization. NASACT truly is a community, and I'm honored to count you as my colleagues and friends.

The association has a rich history of leadership on the issues that shape our professional world. We honor those who have contributed to our governmental financial and accounting environment and owe them our gratitude. However, we cannot be complacent. We must build upon these foundations, leverage our reputation and dedication to excellence, and ensure our continued relevance and effectiveness.

As we look ahead, I'm particularly excited about our upcoming conference here in Boise. Idaho offers a wonderful backdrop for professional development and networking. The conference will deliver two and a half days of high-impact programming, featuring seven general sessions and 31 concurrent breakouts. In addition to engaging sessions, I’m delighted to showcase Boise’s unique history and culture through a variety of networking events. On Sunday, wear your favorite team gear and enjoy exclusive access to “The Blue” — Boise State’s iconic Lyle Smith Field. Then, on Monday evening we’ll immerse ourselves in the vibrant Basque Block, exploring the sights, sounds, and flavors of Boise’s rich Basque heritage. On Tuesday we’ll celebrate excellence by recognizing award winners, including the 2025 inductees into NASACT’s Hall of Fame. A two-day guest program will also be offered, featuring local excursions such as tours of the Old Idaho Penitentiary, the Botanical Gardens, and a Snake River wine tour. The conference will provide excellent opportunities for professional growth, meaningful connections with colleagues, and the chance to address the challenges and opportunities facing our profession. I encourage you to take advantage of everything the conference has to offer.

Progress occurs when dedicated professionals seize opportunities to make positive change. We have tremendous opportunities ahead, and the future begins now. I look forward to a great conference and the opportunities it will provide.

See you in Boise!

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Brandon Woolf is NASACT's 2024-25 president. He was appointed state controller of Idaho in 2012 to fill the remainder of the term of his predecessor and elected to full terms in 2014, 2018 and 2022. He serves on the Idaho Board of Land Commissioners and is secretary of the Idaho Board of Examiners. He is a graduate of Utah State University with a bachelor of arts in political science and earned a master of business administration from Boise State University. He is a past president of the National Association of State Comptrollers.