Sept 19, 2025, 12-1PM ET. 
 
Ever had to deal with a research expense that just didn’t belong on the grant? In this interactive session, Angela Zeno will walk us through real-life examples where Principal Investigators submitted ineligible expenses — and how her team handled them.
We’ll look at:
  • Actual cases involving non-compliant purchases
  • How to spot red flags before it’s too late
  • Tactful ways to work with researchers on corrections
  • Solutions that balance compliance and relationship-building
This is a practical, no-judgment session for anyone in research finance who’s had to say “no” — or who’s not sure when (or how) to say it. You’ll leave with tips, talking points, and tools you can bring back to your team.

Who Should Join: 
Research finance professionals, grant administrators, compliance officers — anyone who deals with reviewing and approving research expenses.
Presented by: Angela Zeno, Francesca Abbruzzese and Melissa Squires

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.

Francesca Abbruzzese
Francesca Abbruzzese is the assistant manager of Research Accounting at York University for 5 years with previous experience as Research Financial and Operations Manager at a community college for ten years. She manages a team of Research Accounting Administrators in post award financial administration related to faculty research grants and contracts. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Fashion Design, Bachelor of Business Administration (Hons) and a diploma in Computer Programing.

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 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.

Event Date: 19 Sep 2025 | City: | Venue: Online