Cara began her public accounting career in 2011 with Maher Duessel, and she was named a Principal of the firm in 2024. She previously directed a wide range of governmental and non-profit audit/tax engagements including counties, municipalities, local authorities, state entities, community colleges, human service agencies, foundations, and faith-based organizations. She has extensive knowledge in Single Audit compliance, and she now oversees several of the firm’s accounting consulting engagements. Her ideal consulting project is audit and financial statement preparation.
As Cara's experience evolved at the firm, she found that her expertise on the audit and compliance side naturally lent itself to taking on an advisory focused position. Cara's consulting practice includes directing engagements that assist with grant accounting, audit and accounting assistance, financial statement preparation, and assistance with improvements to internal controls. She relishes the challenge of working closely with her clients to solve problems, troubleshoot difficult issues, and help guide them towards improvements in their financial reporting.
Cara has played an integral role in leading internal initiatives at the firm in the areas of recruiting and Continuing Professional Education (CPE). These efforts have included participating in presentations and outreach events to high school and college students and leading various training seminars. She also previously was involved with the Member Services Committee of the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA). Alongside her commitment to the public accounting profession, Cara enjoys volunteering. After a long tenure of involvement with the Professional Advisory Committee to the Extra Mile Education Foundation, Cara is now a member of the United Way of Southwestern PA Women United.
Professional Affiliations
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) – Member
- Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) – Member
Community
- Graduate of Leadership Pittsburgh – Leadership Development Initiative, Class XXV
- United Way of Southwestern PA Women United – Member
"I love coming to work because of the people and the fun and inviting culture. The firm goes above and beyond to provide an environment where employees love the work they do and everyone enjoys working with each other."
Education
B.S. Accounting/Finance, Grove City College
