By Adrienn Mendonca-Jones

Yolanda Anglin recently completed a one-year mentorship program through the Western Association of College and University Business Officers (WACUBO). The program trains financial and budget officers for influential roles in managing university finances.

Yolanda Anglin

Now the director of budget and planning at CSUMB, Anglin was matched with mentor Joyce Lopes, who brought a depth of professional experience with the university system, including stints at the CSU campuses of Humboldt and Sonoma, and 11-plus years as a CFO.  They met every month over the course of a year, in which Anglin learned more about accounting, budget, risk management, athletics, human resources, facilities management and more. 

“It gave me a lot more insight into leadership decisions, because Joyce is in the CFO role, and is responsible for many more areas than I am currently in charge of,” said Anglin, who has 26 years of experience. 

Having the support of Stephen Mackey, CSUMB’s associate vice president for finance, was and continues to be instrumental in supporting her growth. 

“At times it almost seems as if Joyce and Steve are working in tandem,” said Anglin. “Joyce provides the theoretical knowledge and Steve pushes me to apply the lessons daily.” 

Anglin also learned a surprising skill from Lopes: being a CFO is a lot like being a parent, a role they have in common. 

“You’d never think you’d need to use your skills as a parent, but you’re directing things, keeping people on track and holding folks accountable,” Anglin said. “You’re the rule keeper.” 

Anglin’s dedication to guiding others doesn’t stop at the doorways of work or home, though. She also volunteers: as an Aztec mentor with San Diego State University, which connects professional mentors with juniors, seniors and graduate students; with the Guardian Scholars program at CSUMB, which provides a support network for current or former foster youth; as well as the Mandla Mentoring program through the Helen Rucker Center for Black Excellence, which provides guidance and support for students of African heritage at CSUMB. 

In a role where it’s easy to get lost in the numbers, keeping direct ties with students helps Anglin maintain a sense of purpose. 

“At the end of the day, it’s really about the efficient use of funds,” Anglin said, “because they ultimately belong to someone else – the students and taxpayers.” 

Once she has attained her personal career goals, Anglin hopes to mentor others in the WACUBO program.