Illinois Tollway Cathy Williams Honored As A Trailblazing Woman in Public Finance
The Bond Buyer and Northeast Women in Public Finance recognized Illinois Tollway Chief Financial Officer Cathy Williams as a Trailblazing Woman in Public Finance.
The award recognizes Williams’ exceptional contributions to the public finance industry, advocacy for women’s leadership and dedication to innovative financial practices that benefit the communities she serves.
“Throughout her more than 30-year career in Finance, Cathy Williams has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse. “Her selection for this award underscores her significant impact as a mentor and role model for the next generation of public finance leaders.”
Williams was honored at The Bond Buyer’s Deal of the Year Awards Gala on December 3 alongside other trailblazing women in finance from the public and private sectors. The awards are bestowed jointly by The Bond Buyer and Northeast Women in Public Finance, acknowledging several women for their outstanding commitment to the industry and the role of women in it. The Trailblazer awards are part of the Freda Johnson Awards for Trailblazing Women in Public Finance.
Williams is responsible for oversight of the Illinois Tollway’s annual $1.7 billion budget, including the financial plan for the Tollway’s 16-year, $15 billion capital program, Move Illinois: The Illinois Tollway Driving the Future.
She also oversees the agency’s general accounting, financial reporting, accounts payable, payroll, risk management and procurement. In addition, her responsibilities include oversight of the agency’s bond issuances, cash and investments and coordination of the audit of the agency’s annual financial statements.
The Illinois Tollway congratulates Williams on this well-deserved recognition. Her leadership and dedication inspire not only her colleagues but also the broader public finance community.