President's Message

As I reflect on this past year, I am reminded that the strength of SACUBO has always been rooted in its people. Serving as your President has been both an honor and a deeply rewarding experience. This year has been filled with meaningful progress, thoughtful collaboration, and a shared commitment to moving our organization forward.

One of the most impactful aspects of this year has been our focus on strengthening SACUBO’s strategic direction. Through the work of the Strategic Plan Taskforce, we took time to be intentional about where we are going and how we will get there. Those conversations were not only important for our future but also a reminder of how much we can accomplish when we bring together diverse perspectives with a common purpose.

We also embraced change in a way that reflects the evolving needs of our membership. The rebranding of our signature events was more than a name change. It was a deliberate effort to better align our programs with the expectations and experiences our members deserve. Seeing the energy and engagement around the Annual Convention, Fall Conference, and SACUBO Leadership Forum has been incredibly encouraging and affirming.

Equally meaningful has been the opportunity to stay connected with our members. Whether through regional meetings, engagement efforts, or simply listening, these moments have reinforced why SACUBO exists. We are here to support one another, to share knowledge, and to grow together. I entered this role with a deep commitment to sustaining the vibrant membership numbers achieved by the previous administration. I am proud to share that, through our collective efforts, we were able to maintain those robust membership numbers throughout this past year.

Throughout the year, I have been especially proud of our continued investment in professional development. Providing scholarships for members to attend key programs and establishing a clear framework through the Professional Development Committee Manual ensures that we are not only supporting our members today but also building a strong pipeline of leaders for tomorrow.

One of the most rewarding milestones of this year took place at the 2026 Annual Convention in Dallas, where we celebrated the graduation of our inaugural SACUBO Mentoring Program class. This year-long, intensive program was specifically designed to build "bench strength" within our region by pairing aspiring Chief Business Officers (CBOs) and Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) with seasoned senior-level mentors. Our inaugural graduates engaged in regular one-to-one sessions focusing on critical leadership areas, including:

• Developing as a strategic leader in the complex landscape of higher education.
• Navigating institutional change and leadership transitions.
• Mastering personal branding and building key institutional relationships.

The success of this pilot year is a testament to the dedication of our mentors, who leveraged their deep expertise to support those following in their footsteps. By investing in this pipeline of talent, we are ensuring that SACUBO continues to provide the leadership necessary to navigate the future of higher education.

Our connections beyond the region have also remained strong. SACUBO’s presence at the national level continues to grow through active engagement with NACUBO, and it has been inspiring to see our members contribute their time, expertise, and leadership in ways that elevate both our organization and the profession as a whole.

This year also highlighted the importance of partnerships and relationships. The formation of our partnership with NASPO and the Procurement Professional Alliance opens new doors for collaboration, and the success of our Business Partner efforts is a testament to the trust and value we have built together. These relationships are critical to sustaining and expanding the work we do.

As we look to the future, I am excited about what lies ahead. The planning underway for SACUBO’s 100th Anniversary Celebration in 2028 is a powerful reminder of our legacy and the impact we continue to make. It is both a celebration of our history and a call to continue building something even greater for the next generation.

Before closing, I want to recognize the individuals who make SACUBO what it is. Our Board, committees, business partners, and members all play a vital role in our success. Your dedication, your willingness to serve, and your commitment to excellence do not go unnoticed.

Serving as your President has been a privilege I will always value. Thank you for your trust, your support, and your continued belief in the mission of SACUBO. I leave this role confident that our organization is strong, our future is bright, and our best work is still ahead.

With Sincere Appreciation, 

Debbie M. Walker, MBA, CGFO
SACUBO President