Deland, FL - A woman who has spent her entire career working for Volusia County was honored in a number of ways during today's (October 15) County Council meeting. Donna de Peyster started with the county 40 years ago as an accounting intern from Stetson University. The accolades for Donna started today during the invocation, followed by a glowing commentary by County Manager George Recktenwald, who said that today, October 15, is 40 years to the day that de Peyster started her internship.
Recktenwald said that during her distinguished career, de Peyster moved through the ranks, becoming Deputy County Manager and Chief Financial Officer in May of 2015. Other things that de Peyster accomplished during her career include, setting up the first automated fuel charging system in 1982, leading the way for the document imaging program set up in 2000 and setting up the current accounting system used by the county in 2006. Recktenwald went on to say that he believes that de Peyster is considered a statewide expert when it comes to FEMA and reimbursements, securing more than $50 million for Volusia county during her tenure. He jokingly said that FEMA might be glad for her retirement. Recktenwald also expressed his personal opinion of de Peyster, saying it would be hard to find anyone that loves Volusia County more than Donna does.
Following Recktenwald's comments, a video featuring many Volusia County employees and members of the Council saying their goodbyes to de Peyster was played. Then it was the featured guest's turn. De Peyster spoke about her love of accounting and her list of all the things that have happened in Volusia County during the course of her career. She said that it's been an honor and a privilege to work with so many bright and talented coworkers over the years. De Peyster finished her speech with praise for the county, the council, and her coworkers. She even promised to answer the phone if Recktenwald called her with questions.
Ryan Ossowski was confirmed as the new chief financial officer for Volusia County.
