Her Story
About Jenny
I came to this country with big dreams and a hope for a better future — the kind of hope that gives you courage to start over, work hard, and trust that every step will lead somewhere meaningful. My Treasury career began at Crescent Real Estate Equities, where I discovered not only a profession I loved, but also the confidence that I could build something lasting through dedication and faith.
From that first opportunity, my journey has taken me through both the private and public sectors, each chapter shaping me in important ways. I worked in hospitality, retail, and real estate before stepping into municipal government, serving the cities of Arlington and Fort Worth. In those roles, I learned how powerful it is to use my skills for the benefit of others. Later, my time with CEC Entertainment and Bimbo Bakeries USA broadened my perspective and strengthened my expertise in corporate Treasury. Every part of this path has meant something to me — each experience adding purpose, gratitude, and growth.
But my calling has always been the public sector. When the opportunity came to serve as Treasurer for the City of Dallas — the ninth‑largest city in the United States — I knew it was an incredible chance to contribute to something bigger than myself. Public service has allowed me to give back to the country that has given me so many opportunities. I applied for the role, was selected, and I’ve now been with the City for almost five years. It has been one of the most meaningful chapters of my career, allowing me to use my experience to support a city of global significance.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jenny
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, perseverance, and the unwavering support of my family. Everything I’ve accomplished has been shaped by the values I was raised with — integrity, humility, and gratitude for every opportunity. My faith has also guided me throughout my career, helping me stay grounded and reminding me to trust the path even when challenges arise.
I’m grateful for the mentors, colleagues, and leaders who believed in me and shared their knowledge. Their encouragement helped me grow, and it’s why I try to offer that same support to those who work with me.
But above all, my success comes from the example set by my family and the desire to make them proud. Their support has been my foundation. It motivates me to keep learning, keep improving, and to serve others with the same dedication and gratitude that have shaped my life.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was to believe in myself and not let fear decide what I could or couldn’t do. Early in my career, I struggled with feeling like I didn’t always belong at the table. I would second-guess myself or worry about not having the perfect answer. Someone once told me, “You earned your seat. Trust that you’ve worked hard to be here.”
That changed my perspective. Confidence isn’t about knowing everything — it’s about showing up, speaking up, and being willing to grow. I still remind myself of that advice today. When doubt creeps in, I pause and remember that my experience, my work, and my voice have value.
It’s the same message I share with the women on my team: believe in what you’ve earned, don’t underestimate your abilities, and don’t let fear hold you back. When you trust yourself, you open doors you might have otherwise talked yourself out of.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My biggest advice is simple: don’t be afraid. You will make mistakes — everyone does — but mistakes can be corrected. What matters is believing in yourself and in the value you bring. Too often I see young women underestimate their experience or hesitate to share their opinions. Your voice matters, and your perspective is valuable. Be proud of what you’ve accomplished so far, and don’t let fear hold you back from contributing, speaking up, or taking on opportunities.
Networking is incredibly important. Building relationships opens doors, creates visibility, and strengthens your confidence over time. And if you can, seek out mentors — and become one. Mentorship is deeply meaningful to me. I’ve watched women on my own team grow simply because someone encouraged them, supported them, and reminded them of their potential.
One of my team members was recently invited to speak on a Women in Public Finance panel. She hates public speaking, and I also worry sometimes — about saying the wrong thing, or about my accent coming through. But she told me that before responding, she asked herself, “What would Jenny do?” Hearing that meant so much to me. She accepted the opportunity, she shined, and she grew from it. That’s what happens when we push past fear.
So my advice is this: don’t hold yourself back. Believe in your abilities, surround yourself with people who lift you up, and when opportunities come your way — say yes, even if it scares you.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in Treasury today is keeping up with the rapid pace of technology and digital transformation. The tools and systems we rely on are evolving quickly, and staying ahead requires constant learning and adaptability. At the same time, this shift creates tremendous opportunity—automation, real‑time data, and improved analytics allow us to work more efficiently and make more informed decisions for our organizations.
Another challenge is the increasing focus on cybersecurity and fraud prevention. As technology advances, so do the risks. Treasury plays a key role in safeguarding financial assets, so staying vigilant, strengthening controls, and building strong partnerships across departments are more important than ever.
Despite these challenges, I see great opportunity in our field. Treasury professionals are now more involved in strategic planning, long‑term forecasting, and helping guide the financial stability of an organization. There is a growing recognition of the value we bring, and that creates space for innovation, leadership, and meaningful impact.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Giving back is one of the most important values in my life. I believe deeply in serving others and in supporting the communities and institutions that have supported me. Much of my volunteer work is focused on the Catholic community, because my faith has guided me throughout my life, and giving back feels like a way to honor the blessings I’ve received. When my children attended St. Andrew Catholic School and received such a wonderful education, I knew I wanted to give back in gratitude — it was my way of paying it forward.
That same sense of gratitude carries into my work in the public sector. When I left Panama, Fort Worth became my home, and this country opened doors for me that I will never take for granted. Serving in local government has given me a deep sense of pride, knowing that my work supports the very communities and institutions that welcomed me. Becoming a U.S. citizen was one of the proudest moments of my life, and it strengthened my belief in giving back through public service.
At the heart of everything I do — personally and professionally — are gratitude, service, faith, and a genuine desire to contribute to something greater than myself. Those values guide every decision I make and remind me why the work I do matters.
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