For Angelica Lopez, volunteering is a meaningful way to give back and a strategic step toward her long-term career goals. As a Payroll, Benefits, and Business Office Support Coordinator at John Sweet USD and a dedicated CASBO member, Angelica views her involvement in the CASBO community as essential to becoming a Chief Business Official (CBO).

“I have a goal to be a CBO, and I wanted to build my toolbox and gain experience and network with others in my field,” she explains.

Volunteering has been key in expanding that toolbox and her network.

Professional Growth Rooted in Service

Angelica has embraced a wide array of CASBO programs, from local events and webinars to regional workshops. These opportunities have helped her grow both professionally and personally. A recent highlight was receiving a scholarship to attend CASBO’s 2025 Women in Leadership Conference, where she gained valuable insights from women who have built impactful careers in school business.

While Angelica values every workshop and program, she consistently ties those learning experiences back to her volunteer work. Her time in CASBO service roles has given her real-world leadership opportunities and strengthened her confidence in collaborative settings. “It means a lot to have the opportunity to grow through so many free programs and learning opportunities,” she reflects.

A Network That Works

Volunteering has been Angelica’s gateway to a reliable professional network that spans multiple disciplines and districts.

“Anytime I have a question about something and it is not related to my field, I know I can reach out to someone in my section, and if they don’t know the answer, they direct me to someone who may know.”

She recalls her first volunteer experience, where she heard a panel of Women in Leadership speak. That moment left a lasting impression. “Hearing their journeys inspired me,” she says. “It motivated me to grow my own career.” These encounters underscore the impact of peer-to-peer learning, mentorship, and shared purpose that volunteering makes possible.

Lifting Others While Learning

Angelica brings what she learns back to her district, always with an eye toward collective improvement. “Anytime I learn something new, I bring it back to my coworkers to see if it can help them,” she says. By sharing new tools and ideas, she builds capacity across her team.

For her, networking is not a solo endeavor. It is about creating mutual support systems. “You never know when you need to phone a friend or when that friend may phone you,” she says. Her volunteer work has expanded her professional reach while reinforcing the value of collaboration at every level.

Final Reflections

CASBO has provided Angelica with a space to grow, lead, and connect. Through volunteering, she has built a network that offers daily value and long-term career support. Her advice for those considering stepping in? “Get involved. It’s a great opportunity to learn and to network.”

Find Your Fit

Whether you’re looking to lead, teach, mentor, or simply connect, there’s a volunteer opportunity that’s just right for you.

Visit the CASBO Volunteer Hub to browse current openings and discover how you can get involved today.