Bernata Slater, CPA

Chief Financial Officer

Professional Overview
Bernata Slater is a seasoned financial executive with over 25 years of experience in the higher education sector. As the Chief Financial Officer at San Mateo County Community College District, she oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring the district's long-term fiscal stability and growth.

Experience Summary

Current Role
As the Chief Financial Officer at San Mateo County Community College District since 2016, Bernata is responsible for managing the district's $300 million annual budget and leading a team of 25 finance professionals. She has implemented robust financial controls, streamlined accounting processes, and spearheaded the implementation of a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, resulting in improved operational efficiency and enhanced data-driven decision-making.

Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Bernata served as the Vice President of Finance and Administrative Services at Foothill College for over 20 years. In this position, she played a key role in managing the college's financial operations, overseeing the construction of a new $50 million student center, and securing several multi-million dollar grants to support student success initiatives.

Academic Background
Bernata holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of California, Berkeley, and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). She is actively involved in professional organizations, such as the California Community Colleges Chief Business Officials (CCCCBO) and the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), where she contributes her expertise and insights to industry-wide initiatives.

Areas of Expertise

• Financial management and strategic planning

• Budgeting, forecasting, and reporting

• Compliance and regulatory oversight

• Enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementation

• Grant management and fundraising

• Facilities and capital project management

• Talent management and team leadership

Professional Impact
Under Bernata's financial stewardship, the San Mateo County Community College District has achieved consistent budget surpluses, maintained a strong credit rating, and successfully navigated complex fiscal challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Her strategic leadership and data-driven approach have enabled the district to allocate resources effectively, invest in critical infrastructure, and support student success initiatives.

Conclusion
Bernata Slater is a respected financial leader in the higher education sector, known for her strategic vision, operational excellence, and commitment to student success. With her extensive experience, technical expertise, and collaborative leadership style, she continues to drive the San Mateo County Community College District towards financial stability and long-term sustainability.