Team
Meet our Team
Mark Halpert, CPA, BA
Principal
I am honored to serve the accounting needs of non-profit organizations. I appreciate that my work allows me to support the efforts of many inspiring people and organizations.
I’m a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), registered in California and Canada, and have worked with non-profits and small businesses since graduating from the University of Western Ontario's Honors Business Administration (HBA) program. I worked first as a public accountant and auditor for five years and then as the Deputy Director of City CarShare, a non-profit car sharing organization. I also served as Director of Finance and Human Resources for 3Degrees, a clean energy startup. I launched Halpert CPAs in 2005 and hired my first associate in 2008. Our firm now serves over eighty non-profit organizations across the country.
I practice yoga and appreciate that accounting is only one area in life where balance is important. I play hand drums, guitar, and ukulele and I published a memoir called Saturn Return in 2021. I am a certified yoga instructor, soccer coach and scout leader. My other passions include travel, photography (including the photos on this website), and hiking. I live with my wife and two children in Victoria, British Columbia and Los Angeles, California.
Zach Cohen, CPA, BS
Accounting Director
I graduated from university with a Bachelors of Science in Accounting and have worked in small business, public accounting, and non-profit environments for the last eight years. I am grateful for the role my skills allow me to play in service to noble organizations working to better our world. In 2012, I obtained my CPA designation.
Subsequent to my graduation from the University of Florida, I worked for two years at Deloitte before feeling compelled to apply my skills directly to organizations whose missions I feel deeply passionate about. I spent three years managing the fund accounting and grants administration system for Larkin Street Youth Services, during which time I also spent a year living in a remote off-the-grid traditional Chinese martial arts training center in the mountains of Northern California studying meditation, Taijiquan, and Kung Fu. Before focusing my practice exclusively on non-profit organizations, I served as CFO of Cutting Edge Capital and K2 Legal, a related law and consulting firm devoted to helping socially responsible businesses, co-ops, and non-profits access funding that is harmonious with their missions.
In 2011, I founded Biketopia Community Workshop, a South Berkeley community bicycle education and youth services non-profit. I’m an avid juggler, dog lover, bicyclist/bike mechanic, amateur cook, amateur gymnast, ashtanga yogi, and kettlebell enthusiast. I also practice and teach acroyoga.
Molly Isenbarger, CPA, BA
Managing Director
My interest in supporting nonprofits and mission-driven entrepreneurship began at Brown University, where I ran grant competitions, business development seminars, and was involved in various research teams focused on supporting organizations with social missions to become financially sustainable and operationally effective.
Before joining Halpert CPAs in 2014, I was the Managing Director/CFO for a non-profit called Generation Citizen offering an action-civics program to middle and high school students. In this role, I helped the organization grow from a start-up to a national organization serving students in sites across the country.
I now live in Fishers, Indiana with my husband, Mark and our young son. Outside of Halpert CPAs, I run a small quilting and design business and love to spend my free time trying new recipes or gardening in our yard.
Krestin Ryan, BS
Accounting Manager
I have worked for CPA firms since graduating from California State University Chico with a degree in Business Administration with an option in Accounting in 1997. In that time, I spent 7 years working closely with non-profit organizations of all sizes, providing auditing, bookkeeping, 990 preparation and consulting services. In those years, I gained a strong understanding and appreciation of non-profit organizations and their staff.More recently, I worked as an accountant for individuals and corporations but I have maintained my appreciation for non-profits.
I have been active in the non-profit sector by serving as the Treasurer of the Angioma Alliance for several years as well as spending time fundraising for various organizations that my family holds in high regard. I am glad to have this opportunity to refocus my professional attention toward non-profit organizations.
I live in Roseville, California with my husband, son and daughter. Our daughter plays soccer on a competitive travelling team and our son plays basketball and soccer. We love to travel as a family and enjoy camping and hiking during the summer. During the winter you can find us on the slopes of Lake Tahoe’s mountains, snowboarding.
Kara Halpert, CPA (Canada), CGA, BA, ACIA
Senior Accountant
I am a Canadian Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and have worked in the field since 1994, serving small businesses, non-profits and individuals. I have worked in public accounting firms in Edmonton and Vancouver, Canada, conducting month-end financial closings and year-end accounting, including taxation and auditing.
I am now a Senior Accountant, working directly with clients across the United States and reviewing the work of my colleagues. I enjoy working with mission-driven organizations and find it satisfying to gather and disseminate information that helps others to function in their work and make informed decisions.
I earned my Canadian CPA in 2015 and am also a Certified General Accountant (CGA) and earned an Advanced Certificate in Accounting (ACIA) in 2000. I have a BA in political science from the University of Western Ontario in London, Canada. I play soccer and enjoy traveling, mountain biking, swimming and skiing. I live with my husband and two daughters in Victoria, Canada.
Amoreena Lucero, BA
Accountant
I started my career in accounting in 1995, working for a local CPA firm that served small businesses and nonprofits. I’ve been with Halpert CPAs since 2013 where I enjoy working directly with clients to set up useful and efficient accounting systems. I find it particularly rewarding to get to know an organization and its team well, helping to find solutions that fit their unique needs. I earned a BA in Communications from California State University, Sacramento, and have continued my professional development with college-level accounting classes and ongoing study. When my first child was born in 2001, I felt the need for more work-life balance and became self-employed and more actively involved in the community.
Cooking and nutrition have been lifelong passions, and as a professionally trained chef, I am always aspiring to learn more and teach others. I enjoy the occasional private chef job, and teaching others to cook. I continue to look for ways to hone my skills – whether it be cooking for my family, planning themed dinners with friends, or learning more about the anthropology of food. In addition to cooking, I work with a couple of local theater companies, serve on the board of a local non-profit, and enjoy hiking at our beautiful local parks in Silicon Valley.
Meg McIntyre, BA
Accountant
I began working in non-profit accounting in 2003, providing bookkeeping and reporting services for an urban planning educational institute in Portland, Oregon while I completed my undergraduate degree in Applied Linguistics. In 2005 I moved to New York City, and over the next decade I held a number of administrative and business management roles at small businesses and non-profits (including AICon Gallery, The Moth, and Sixpoint Brewery), and worked independently as a financial and operations consultant for startups in the arts and music industries.
I joined Halpert CPAs in early 2015 and have greatly enjoyed building my non-profit accounting skill set, learning from the expertise of my colleagues, and supporting the work of our diverse array of client organizations.
I now make my home in the Catskill mountains of upstate New York. I serve on the board of a local community organization dedicated to social and economic justice, spend as much time as possible outside running, hiking and gardening, and fill my inside hours with cooking, baking, and dance parties with my kiddo.
Emily Paulos, MA, BFA
Administrator/Accountant
In the mid-90's while beginning my teaching career as a high school art teacher and staff development instructor, I completed my MA in art education pursuing the convergence of storytelling and new media. My masters thesis, a website called The Mom Project, examines issues of narrative and the use of technology in the art classroom. In 2002 I joined the staff of a Berkeley-based non-profit, StoryCenter, teaching storytelling media training workshops around the world, as well as taking on the role of Managing Director. As the staff grew, and with the birth of my first child, I shifted away from teaching, focusing instead on developing StoryCenter's organizational and financial systems.
I became familiar with Halpert CPAs as a client in 2009 and am pleased to now be a part of the team. I find that my creative energies are put to good use toward refining and streamlining the functions of organizations. As Administrator, I support the sustainable growth of Halpert CPAs as we work to better serve non-profits.
My husband and I live in Berkeley with our daughter and son. We enjoy the bounty of great food and nature in the Bay Area, and make treks back to Iowa and Canada to visit family.
Cristina Sagray, MS, BA
Accountant
After going to college in Sacramento and spending years in the business world, I realized that accounting was the field I enjoyed the most. In 2005, I graduated with my Masters in Accounting at Colorado University of Denver. I spent two years auditing at KPMG and spent the following ten years supporting medium to small businesses on staff and as a consultant. With Halpert CPAs since 2018, I am happy to be working with non-profits and the passionate people who lead them. I enjoy working directly with clients to help them create efficient systems and strong internal controls.
I returned from Colorado to my native Bay Area in 2010 where I volunteer weekly at my children’s school, teaching cooking, math and reading. I live in Campbell, CA with my husband and two sons. In my free time, I make costumes for my boys and learn about crafting, up-cycling and maker’s projects. When I’m not working, I am often at the library, a craft store or my children’s school.
Jody Galbraith, BS, BS
Accountant
After graduating from college with a degree in Business, I spent a large portion of my career in banking. Looking for a change, I agreed to take on the books for a friend’s business. As my bookkeeping business grew, I found myself supporting a very worthwhile non-profit. Before long I began working with Halpert CPAs through our mutual client. Several years later, I shifted my focus to higher level support of non-profits and was hired by Halpert CPAs in 2018. I feel truly fortunate to be working for such a quality organization. The Halpert staff have been tremendous to work with and I have seen firsthand the strong ethics that form the foundation of our organization. It has been a pleasure to serve numerous non-profits as an Accountant with Mark’s firm.
Home in Montana, I live with my partner miles from a city center and high in the mountains. It is a gorgeous, quiet place. My office looks out into vast forest spread before me, a view which I never tire of. We see many animals traveling through and that thrill of watching those animals make their way never loses its appeal. Plus, being able to ski and hike directly from our cabin is a huge bonus.
A keen desire for exploring new places has taken me all over the world. My solo travel leaves me feeling like I can take on any challenge. My most cherished and memorable trip was to Kenya in 2019, where I fell in love with the beautiful country, people, and exotic animals. When not traveling, you will find me taking full advantage of all the amazing things that Montana has to offer - from outdoor activities, such as hiking and floating the rivers of Montana, to cultural events, such as the theater and our local symphony.
Andrea Urban, BSc, MA
Accountant
I have loved accounting since my first class in high school. I knew I'd found my calling when I finished the entire workbook in the first month of class. I went on to earn a Masters of Accountancy degree from Truman State University. After graduating, I audited rural hospitals, worked for many years in the construction industry, and then for a non-profit. I have had the opportunity to do bookkeeping for several churches and it has given me a heart for working with organizations that are making a difference in people’s lives.
As an Accountant with Halpert CPAs since 2019, I have the opportunity to work with our clients on their monthly closing process and provide support throughout the month. I really enjoy getting to know each organization through this.
I live just outside of St. Louis, MO with my husband and three sons. When I am not working, you can find us at a Church event, a soccer or basketball game, at the school or at music concerts. I volunteer with 3-5 year old children as an Awana leader and a MOPs Kids leader. In my spare time, I love crafts, puzzles and a good sale.
Elizabeth Violette, CPA, BS
Accountant
My experience in accounting began at St. Mary’s College of California where I earned a B.S. in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting. I joined Hood & Strong LLP, one of Northern California’s oldest public accounting firms, where I worked closely with numerous Bay Area non-profit organizations. This is where I discovered my passion for working with non-profits. After my time in public accounting, I worked as Assistant Controller for a large Bay Area mortgage banking company. I’ve been with Halpert CPAs since 2020.
I live near Sacramento, California and volunteer and fundraise for a youth leadership and service non-profit called Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference. I also enjoy spending time with my family, working on puzzles, creating origami out of money, and hiking.
Jessi Pettenuzzo, BA
Accountant
My passion for non-profit work grew during my time studying accounting at the University of San Diego. I had the wonderful opportunity to be part of the Center for Community, Awareness and Social Action where I worked for the Bayside Community Center directing an educational after-school program for at-risk youth for four years. After college, I moved to San Francisco where I worked for Apercen Partners, a public accounting firm.
I enjoy traveling, hiking, yoga, skiing, and baking. I am a lifelong dancer, currently teaching a ballet-based fitness class called Sleek Technique. I am an event planner and organize and lead outdoor activities for Women Who Explore. I live in San Francisco and I’m passionate about helping others through my work. I’ve been a part of the Halpert CPAs team since 2020 and I am inspired to support mission-driven organizations.
Shannon Findley, BS, M Ed
Accountant
My career in accounting has included experience in a variety of industries, from public accounting to wealth management to non-profits. It became clear to me, especially while working with non-profits, that my career was most fulfilling when my work ultimately served to educate and positively impact communities.
In addition to an undergraduate degree in Accounting, I earned a Master of Education from DePaul University and taught at the elementary level in Chicago Public Schools. Most recently, I served as the Finance Manager for the Chicago Literacy Alliance, a collective of organizations working to meet the literacy needs of local communities. This role was particularly meaningful to me as an avid reader and passionate advocate for literacy as a crucial tool for personal achievement and key to an educated, sustainable society. I am delighted to be a part of Halpert CPAs where I have the opportunity to work with like-minded professionals in bringing passion, integrity and excellence to the services we offer our clients.
I live in the suburbs of Chicago with my husband and our daughter. I am a certified yoga teacher, focused on bringing yoga to underserved communities. In my free time, I enjoy reading, discussing books, cooking, gardening, hiking along the Fox River, bingeing Netflix shows with my family and practicing yoga.
Yasi Crumpler, MA, BA
Accountant
I graduated with my Masters in accounting from Texas Tech University, where I also received my undergraduate degree. I have worked for various public accounting firms as an auditor since graduating where one of my main industry focuses was non-profit clients.
I enjoy working with non-profit clients as I appreciate their cause and contributing to the community. I started at Halpert CPAs in 2022 and enjoy being able to continue to help the community by helping non-profit organizations.
I currently live in San Marcos, TX with my husband and labradoodle. I enjoy playing video games with my husband, and am an avid reader of books and comic books. In my free time I enjoy live music and going to conventions in many cities throughout the states.
Julie Betler, MSA
Accountant
I earned both my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in accounting from Texas Tech University. My journey in the realm of finance led me through several public accounting firms, where I honed my skills in auditing and developed a passion for supporting non-profit causes. After taking a break from public accounting, I worked as the Director of Accounting for Boys and Girls Clubs.
I find fulfillment in working with non-profit clients, appreciating their causes and the impact they have on the community. Since joining Halpert CPAs in 2024, I'm thrilled to contribute to our mission alongside like-minded professionals, bringing passion, integrity, and excellence to our client services.
I live in Kansas City, MO, with my two cats. My interests span far and wide, from immersing myself in the vibrant world of comics to attending concerts. During my free time, I enjoy traveling to visit my friends across the US.
Nicole Huggins, BS
Accountant
I graduated from Illinois State University in 2015 with a Bachelor's degree in Finance with a minor in Accounting. After graduation, I began working in the insurance industry, where I held a variety of roles in corporate accounting for almost 9 years. During my career, I have led several significant projects to determine how each step affects the financials and supported various colleagues to help them understand all the impacts as well. I am thrilled to work with Halpert CPAs and be able to support and learn more about nonprofits and their missions. I have always been interested in nonprofits, so I am very grateful for the opportunity to bring my experience to this new realm of work.
I live in Normal, IL with my husband and son. We enjoy traveling and exploring new places, and make frequent visits to see our families that are spread out over several states across the country. We have also visited several countries outside of the US and hope to continue traveling to as many places as we can. In my free time, I enjoy reading a good book or catching up on a new Netflix show. I am also an avid country music fan and enjoy attending live concerts whenever I can.
Affiliations
Certified Public Accountant (CPA), California Board of Accountancy
Mark Halpert, Zach Cohen, Molly Isenbarger, and Elizabeth Violette
Certified Public Accountants of Canada (CPA)
Mark Halpert and Kara Halpert
QuickBooks Online Certified ProAdvisor
