As the Utility Accountant for the Research Accounting department, Cara is responsible for Fixed Price Residual Transfers, Refunds, and NSF (National Science Foundation). As the Utility Accountant, Cara assists different units as needed due to vacancies or extended leave situations. Cara also helps with special projects for the Director of Research Accounting. Cara enjoys analyzing data and grants to assist departments and management make informed decisions.
Cara began her career with Penn State University in the Department of Agriculture in March 2023. She then joined Research Accounting in February 2024. Prior to Penn State, Cara worked for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for 15 years. 12 of those years were spent handling Federal grants for the PA Department of Environmental Protection. While working in the Comptroller’s office, she handled SAP Master Data, drawdowns from the Federal government, Federal Financial reports, and other reimbursement requests and invoices.
Cara holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Penn State Smeal College of Business, class of December 2006. Cara also received the ACES Certified Research Administrator certification in the Spring 2024.