Clark has served on the 12-member DFMC Board of Directors since 2016, last year as Secretary. Although she describes herself as more of a “behind the scenes person,” Clark says she was open to encouragement from her peers, and Bishop Gerald Barnes, to serve as president.
“Taking on this role means I have to step out of my comfort zone,” Clark says. “I’m saying ‘yes’ because this is a service to the larger community.”
The DFMC serves as an important resource for diocesan CFOs in the United States, Canada and Caribbean, Clark says. Most of the organization’s information and resources are provided during an annual Fall Conference.
“It gives us the go-to place for information about best practices for fiscal management in the Church,” she says. “It gives us a chance to share resources.”
A recent example of this cited by Clark is effective presentations at the most recent DFMC Conference by the Diocese of Galveston, TX and Diocese of Arecibo, Puerto Rico—sites of recent natural disasters—on the financial aspects of disaster recovery.
As President, Clark will chair three meetings of the DFMC Board and one meeting of the Board’s Executive Committee over the next year. She will also work with the DFMC subcommittees on auditing, strategic planning and program planning.
“This is a real honor for the Diocese and a reflection of Laura’s expertise and integrity in the ministry of church finance,” Bishop Barnes said of Clark’s election as DFMC President.
Clark has served as Diocesan CFO since 2010.