Finance chief honored as best in the field

The Dallas Business Journal has named Dallas Independent School District Chief Financial Officer Dr. James Terry, CPA, Government CFO of the Year, an award that distinguishes North Texas’ financial professionals “whose demonstrated commitment to their respective companies’ financial best practices, accounting standards and success as a strategic visionary set them apart.”

Under Terry’s direction, the Dallas ISD was able to double the district’s general fund, secure funding for major renovation to district schools, and improve its Moody’s bond rating from AA- to AA as well as its Samp;P rating for financial management from regular to strong.  

According to an interview with DBJ, Terry’s future plans include improving DISD’s Financial Services’ business practices through use of more efficient processes and technology.

“Our greatest goals are achieved when taxpayers, whose money we are funded with, and children, who we serve every day, are championed,” said Terry in his interview with DBJ.

Terry started with the district in 2011 as the Interim CFO, and was officially named to the position a short time later. Terry credits this recognition to the strong capabilities of those who work for and with him from the clerks to the executive directors, including the support of the other chiefs and Superintendent Mike Miles.

Before coming to Dallas ISD, Terry served for more than 20 years in Northeast ISD in San Antonio, holding multiple business-service roles. He is also a past board member of the Texas Association of School Business Officials.

“Dr. Terry’s recognition as CFO of the Year is well deserved,” noted Miles. “His commitment to being a good steward of the funds entrusted to us has ensured that we have the financial foundation we need to be innovative, and meet the needs of all our students.”