A new internship program in the City of Orange Treasurer\u2019s Office is helping students gain hands-on experience in municipal finance while supporting the city\u2019s efforts to expand transparency and community engagement. At the center of the program is Chapman University graduate Ethan Goldberg \u201926, who recently completed the inaugural internship under City Treasurer Garrett Smith.<\/p>\n
Smith created the internship after identifying both a staffing gap and an opportunity to reimagine the treasurer\u2019s role in local government. Traditionally focused on compliance-based responsibilities, Smith sought to expand the office\u2019s impact through public-facing initiatives such as community town halls, Instagram Live sessions, and educational outreach.<\/p>\n
\u201cI wanted to take this role to a different level and incorporate more public outreach to share information with the community,\u201d Smith said. He also saw an opportunity to introduce students to municipal finance, an area of government that is often difficult to access. \u201cWhat better way than to work with an amazing institution like Chapman University.\u201d<\/p>\n
Goldberg learned about the position at a Chapman career fair and was selected after an interview process that included an informal meeting with Smith. \u201cWhat stood out was his drive and willingness to jump into something new,\u201d Smith said. \u201cYou can teach skills, but you can\u2019t teach character and work ethic.\u201d<\/p>\n
During his internship, Goldberg contributed to several key projects, including a comparative analysis of regional cities\u2019 investment portfolios, budgets, and cash positions, as well as research into the Mills Act program and its financial impact. He also supported Chapman-related municipal analysis and helped examine the broader role of treasurers at the local and national levels.<\/p>\n
Beyond technical work, Goldberg played a role in launching the city\u2019s first Treasury Town Hall, designed to bring financial education directly to residents. The event, held at St. John\u2019s Lutheran Church, received strong community engagement.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was awesome to be part of the Town Hall,\u201d Goldberg said. \u201cWe were grateful for everyone who showed up, and the feedback afterward was extremely rewarding.\u201d<\/p>\n
Goldberg said the experience strengthened his understanding of public service. \u201cThis internship taught me persistence, teamwork, and the value of a great mentor.\u201d<\/p>\n
Smith plans to continue the program, with another Chapman intern expected in the next cycle, further strengthening ties between the City of Orange and Chapman University and expanding opportunities for students in Orange.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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