Overview
Colleen is a seasoned accounting and advisory professional with over two decades of experience serving not-for-profit organizations across the United States. She specializes in assessing and improving financial operations, designing effective charts of accounts, and navigating complex technical accounting issues unique to the nonprofit sector. Known for her collaborative approach, Colleen builds trust with clients and teams alike, enabling her to uncover root issues and deliver practical, lasting solutions.
Experience
Since joining O’Connor Consulting Services (OCS) in 2012, Colleen has supported clients in a wide range of capacities, including managing financial operations, leading month-end and year-end closes, and overseeing financial statement audits. Moreover, she has conducted numerous assessments of financial processes and procedures, with a focus on identifying risks and implementing improvements that enhance efficiency and compliance. Colleen has also served as interim CFO and Controller for several clients, along with leading accounting system implementations and the adoption of new accounting standards. In June 2025, Aprio announced its acquisition of OCS.
Prior to OCS, Colleen held leadership roles at National Geographic Ventures and the National Geographic Society. She began her career at KPMG, auditing not-for-profit organizations and developing a deep understanding of the sector’s unique financial landscape. In recent years, Colleen has presented in key industry conferences, including the Greater Washington Society of CPAs’ Not-For-Profit Symposium.
Education & Affiliations
Colleen earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Notre Dame. She is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in the Commonwealth of Virginia and a member of the Greater Washington Society of CPAs.
Colleen currently serves as Treasurer for Peace Direct USA, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting peacebuilding efforts around the world. She also supports the Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Dinner of Champions, reflecting her commitment to causes that align with her values.
Her professional development includes attaining the AICPA’s Not-for-Profit Certificates I and II.
Insights
