October 29, 2025, 12-1PM EST.
Audits aren’t easy especially in higher ed, where resources are limited and documentation isn’t always complete. This session will look at common challenges like in-kind contributions, missing backup, and last-minute auditor requests.
We will share some practical tips based on real experience what’s worked, what hasn’t, and a few ways to make the process a bit less stressful and more manageable for your team.
Presented by: Angela Zeno, Melissa Squires and Mike Walesiak
Angela Zeno
Angela Zeno is a long-time leader in CARA's finance community and has been recognized for her achievements in welcoming new colleagues to CARA, co-developing conferences workshops for fellow finance experts, and presenting research finance webinars to our membership. Angela is a networking catalyst among research finance professionals and she has helped created a collegial, dynamic community of her peers.
Melissa Squires
Melissa Squires has been a member of CARA for over 16 years. She presents and facilitates finance sessions at the CARA regional and national conferences. She feels that CARA it is a great way to network and share best practices with your colleagues from all across Canada.Melissa is currently the Manager of Research Accounting at Memorial University and has a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Memorial University and a CPA, CGA designation.
Mike Walesiak
Michael Walesiak, CPA, CA has 20 years of senior management experience at the University of Alberta (UofA) in the field of Research Administration.As Director, Research Administrative Services, he is responsible for the delivery of end-to-end research services for the over $500 million annual research enterprise at the UofA. This includes application review, award processing, contract negotiation and financial reporting.
Event Date: 29 Oct 2025 | City: | Venue: Online