Black History Month

During the month of February, and in connection with IAAO celebrating it's 90th anniversary, the Women's Initiative Network is noting the accomplishments of African-American women in assessment history. 

In Texas, Nelda Wells Spears was appointed Travis County tax assessor‐collector Aug. 1, 1991, making her the first African‐American tax assessor-collector among the state's 254 counties. She was reelected five times before retiring in 2011.

In Tennessee, Vivian M. Wilhoite in 2016 became the first African American to hold the Office of Assessor of Property in the history of Davidson County, which includes Nashville.

In 2023, Joyce Morgan was the first African American Elected Duval County, Florida Property Appraiser and JoHelen Walker became the first African American Tax Assessor and Collector in the Oktibbeha (MS) County.

In Virginia, in 2023 Deidra Kelly, AAS, MBA of Arlington County became the first African American female president of the Virginia Association of Assessing Officers.

According to Wikipedia, in 2008, George Mason University in Virginia declared Wentworth Cheswell of New Hampshire, who during his career from 1768 to 1817, served in many public offices, including as an assessor, to be the first African American elected to public office in the history of the United States.

If you know of an assessor who was first in the field in your state, contact Tammy Brown at brown@iaao.org.

 

Women's Initiative Network

WIN'ing Conversations

The IAAO Women’s Initiative Task Force is setting up a series of interactive virtual presentations and the next "Women's Initiative Network (WIN): WIN'ing Conversations," is set for Tuesday, February 20 at Noon Central

Get ready to discuss time management tips and organizational tools during the next Women’s Initiative Network WIN’ing Conversation Call at noon on Tuesday, Feb. 20. Carmen Trammell, Leon County Property Appraiser's Office, will review Microsoft Office tools that can be used for organizing your office, time, and life. For example, Microsoft Outlook is not just used for scheduling meetings. Learn more about setting reminders and organizing emails.

Additionally, Microsoft OneNote is a great tool for note taking and keeping all your important information in one place. With a little practice and knowledge, you can stay on top of your busy schedule and get more done in less time. The call is free and sign up below.

Register for Feb. 20 Call       Sign Up for Future WIN Events