Our team is your team.
When you engage with Ascent CFO Solutions, you gain a proven and experienced team of fractional financial professionals who become your leadership’s teammates to help your company grow. We listen, ask the right questions, engage deeply in your organization, and provide customized financial strategy and execution.
As a trusted member of your team, we give you visibility into your business so you can make informed decisions that drive your company upward.
Dan DeGolier
FOUNDER & FRACTIONAL CFO
Helping entrepreneurs ‘Upward’ to help them understand their finances and cash flows, and obtain the capital needed to grow is what I am passionate about. Working alongside leaders of companies to help them reach their highest potential is the reason I founded Ascent CFO Solutions almost 10 years ago.
With nearly 30 years of experience, I have operated as a CPA with a global accounting firm, full-time CFO with multiple private companies and now as a Fractional CFO and Founder. My Fractional CFO experience includes partnering with companies in many industries including Technology & SaaS, manufacturing, e-commerce, professional services, financial services, construction, and real estate.
My education includes a B.S. in Accounting from Colorado State University. When not working with clients, I love riding my mountain bike, skiing, hiking and spending time with my wife and three daughters.
Will Riegel, MBA
VP of Operations and Client Success
Over the past 15 years, I have supported multiple early-stage companies with establishing a market presence, developing efficient processes, and fostering cultures of continuous improvement.
Some of my career highlights include: managing the annual marketing plan for Alaska Airlines, reorganizing the new client onboarding process for a machine-learning/AI company, and managing the finance department of an event planning agency. I enjoy leveraging my experience in financial management, HR, marketing, and operational consulting to help our clients accelerate growth.
Originally from San Francisco, I have lived in Seattle, New York City, and now Denver. I have an MBA from the University of Colorado, Denver, and a BA from Seattle University. When I am not working, I like to spend my time playing golf and watching baseball. I live in Denver with Milo, my grey alley cat.
Meredith Leighty
Director of Recruiting
I am an accomplished Talent Acquisition professional with over 20 years of experience in the professional services industry.
Before joining Ascent CFO Solutions, I spent 16 years in various recruitment roles with Accenture and PwC. I then joined a start-up management consulting firm where I was the People Partner responsible for Talent Acquisition as well as internal HR functions and processes. I love connecting people with opportunities, driving growth, and elevating the candidate and employee experience.
Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, I hold a Bachelor's in Psychology from Penn State University and an MBA from the University of Denver. Outside of work, you'll find me spending time with my husband, 2 daughters, and 2 wheaten terrier pups. We love to travel, hang out at the lake, and cheer on our favorite sports teams.
Kayla Bowsky
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
I am passionate about helping people. I have been in various forms of administration the last 10 years and love organizing and bringing efficiencies to the company.
I graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a B.S. in Sport and Exercise Science, and a minor in Psychology. My career started working in healthcare and finance industries.
As a Colorado native, I enjoy spending time with my husband and two little girls in our beautiful state. Whenever I have spare time I also love painting and reading a good book.
Mark Kearney, M.S. Finance
Fractional CFO
As a seasoned executive with extensive experience in financial and operational leadership, I have a proven track record of success in driving business growth and profitability. Throughout my career, I have worked with organizations of varying sizes, from high-growth startups to large companies with over a billion in revenue.
Over the course of seventeen years with McKesson's Healthcare Technology division, I developed a deep understanding of the software development process and SaaS solutions delivery. I later focused on startups and early-stage organizations, leveraging my experience to help them achieve their growth goals, including the acquisition of venture debt and equity funding. My leadership style emphasizes collaboration and data-driven decision-making. I prioritize financial statement accuracy and insightful analysis to ensure successful business outcomes. My passion for presenting to boards and investors enables me to effectively communicate the performance and growth opportunities of a business.
I hold a BA in Business Management with a concentration in Finance from North Carolina State University, as well as an MS in Finance with a specialization in Organizational Leadership from Colorado State University Global. I am also proud to have contributed to the successful growth of Prospect Ridge Academy as a member of the steering committee and inaugural board of directors.
In my free time, I enjoy pursuing outdoor activities such as skiing, cycling, and playing golf.
Matt Kelly
FRACTIONAL CFO
As a Fractional CFO, I am passionate about helping our clients transform their Finance and Accounting functions into areas of strength. Whether working with founder-owned, VC-backed, PE-backed, or recently acquired organizations, I thrive in helping to bring them up to Enterprise company standards in terms of planning, reporting, analytics and GAAP-compliant accounting.
Before joining Ascent CFO Solutions, I spent over a decade as a full-time CFO, leading 5 different successful companies through various stages of growth. In each instance, we built out a talented and productive team that delivered world-class accounting, finance and analytics. We grew profitably while closing acquisitions, running ERP implementations, passing audits, raising rounds of VC financing and running a successful exit to Private Equity.
Before that, I spent 15 years at three different Fortune 150 companies, working every conceivable role as I climbed the finance ladder. I attended the University of Colorado at Boulder, graduating from the Leeds School of Business, majoring in Finance.
I also proudly serve as the Treasurer and Executive Board Member of We Don't Waste, a non-profit supporting the Denver community and the environment by diverting quality food from the landfill and delivering to those in need. I am a native Coloradoan who enjoys skiing in the winters, fly fishing in the summers, and traveling with my wife, daughter and son.
Shirley Potenza, CPA
FRACTIONAL CFO
As a seasoned financial executive, I am adept at guiding companies through periods of dynamic growth. With a career spanning over two decades, I have developed a holistic understanding of financial management and strategic planning. My journey reflects a commitment to excellence, a dedication to collaborative success, and a proven track record of contributing significantly to the success of both startup ventures and established businesses.
Having successfully navigated the complexities of various industries such as CPG, aerospace, and alternative energy, my finance and accounting proficiency also spans manufacturing, government contracting, and professional services. In addition to being a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), I am Certified in Financial Forensics, a Certified Fraud Examiner, a Certified Valuation Analyst (inactive), and a Senior Certified Professional (inactive).
In my free time, I find joy in quality family moments, indulging in the art of cooking, and immersing myself in captivating books. I have also contributed my time and expertise as a board member for the Matthew Shepard Foundation, the Alliance of Professional Women, and the Colorado LGBT Bar Association.
Scott Heinemann, MBA
FRACTIONAL CFO
I have 25 years of venture capital, finance, and operations experience with high-growth companies in multiple industries. My previous two exits as CFO were with a workforce management software consulting firm and, most recently, a SaaS video-on-demand provider focused on the health and fitness industry. Both of these companies grew rapidly, raised outside capital, and had successful exits with private equity and strategic buyers.
I am enthusiastic about working with executive and leadership teams to overcome the unique challenges that companies face in different industries. I am an operations-focused CFO who excels at the data-driven decision-making process which can lead directly to a company’s success.
I earned my Bachelor's degree in Financial Management from Clemson University and my MBA in Entrepreneurship/Technology and Innovation Management from the University of Colorado, Boulder. I am an avid traveler who enjoys hiking, snowboarding, mountain biking, and spending time with my family.
Julia Schlatter, MBA, CMA
FRACTIONAL CFO
I am a believer that when leaders have the right measurement tools, it can propel a company to higher levels. I enjoy helping teams reach their full potential by finding the right solutions for individualized businesses.
The majority of my career has focused on the technology space, working with software engineering companies through all stages of growth. I came to Ascent CFO Solutions after a position as CFO of a private equity-backed software engineering firm with a presence primarily in Eastern Europe. I have helped companies of various sizes and geographic locations through M&A opportunities on both the buy and sell side. I also have extensive experience creating budgets and reporting packages for stakeholders, including boards, debt holders, and private equity groups.
I have a BS in Finance from the University of Colorado Boulder, an MBA in Global Business Development from Denver University, and I am an active CMA. In my spare time, I love to ski, travel the world, and spend time with my husband and two kids.
Michael Leonardi, CPA
FRACTIONAL CFO
I am a Fractional CFO as well as a Bitcoin and cryptoasset solutions strategist with 25 years of accounting, finance, and operations experience.
I have strong expertise in helping growth-oriented companies solve complex challenges utilizing a combination of technology and leadership. I am knowledgeable in the unique challenges of both early-stage technology startups as well as mature organizations pursuing M&A.
I have extended experience with fast-paced and dynamic environments as well as mentoring and leading geographically dispersed teams. I have led teams across the United States and internationally to perform their best under challenging circumstances. From mentoring to operational support, I have made it my mission to leverage what knowledge I have to help teams reach their highest potential.
I have a B.S. in Accounting from George Mason University and began my career with PricewaterhouseCoopers. When I am away from my work, I enjoy running, hiking, and spending time with my wife and son.
Paul Harrison, MBA
FRACTIONAL CFO
As a fractional CFO, I enjoy working alongside the creative energy of entrepreneurs, supporting them with my 15+ years of financial and operational experience.
I have worked with high growth companies whose customers include the majority of the country's largest retailers, including Whole Foods, Trader Joes, Walmart, Costco, Kroger, Aldi, Home Depot and Amazon. I created financial models that facilitated profitable new product introductions and I worked with lenders and investors to secure the necessary financing. At Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Lucy’s and other organizations, I led teams in FP&A, accounting and finance, HR, IT and risk management, and mentored financial analysts and accountants who have gone on to take significant leadership positions.
I have an MBA from the University of Virginia's Darden School, a BA from Emory & Henry College and I am a Certified Public Accountant (inactive).
I have served on the board and as chair of the finance committee of HabitatForsyth, a Habitat for Humanity affiliate. I enjoy the outdoors, and I am an avid runner and triathlon participant.
Pam Wismer
FRACTIONAL CFO
I am an action-oriented, outside-of-the-box thinker who finds growing companies very exciting. I am thrilled that I joined the Ascent CFO team in a role where I partner with leadership teams to give them clear visibility into how to drive growth in their businesses.
I started my career as a CPA with Ernst & Young and spent 10 years with LandAmerica Financial Group in a variety of roles, including multiple M&A projects. After a couple of years in oil and gas, I spent 12 years in home-building and experienced great satisfaction overcoming challenges with amazing people.
As the SVP of Operations for an online crowd-funded lending company, I had the pleasure of working with emerging and growing businesses that accessed over $1 billion. Most recently, I served as the CFO for an HVAC company where I guided them through their Employee Stock Ownership Plan transition and the recent acquisition which increased operations by 40%.
I have a B.S. in Accounting from CSU. I enjoyed participating in sprint triathlons, half-marathons, and one very exhausting full marathon, but I have learned to fully appreciate quiet moments on the patio by the fire with my family and our two precious dogs.
Jodi Mercer, MBA
FRACTIONAL CFO
Being a fractional CFO is exciting as it provides the opportunity of working with a variety of companies, and their challenges, across the full spectrum of industries.
I started my career with a B.S. in Microbiology from Michigan State University, then pursued my MBA in Finance and Accounting from Pennsylvania State University.
I immediately moved into a variety of finance and accounting/management positions at companies like NCR and Xpedx, a division of International Paper. I spent the next 9 years working with Corporate Express, in a senior financial position, as the company pursued an aggressive roll up strategy, purchasing and integrating several billion dollars in acquisitions over a 5 year span. This experience enabled working with other companies both large and small, in a CFO capacity, as they pursued similar growth strategies inclusive of the operating challenges accompanying those endeavors.
In my free time, I am a competitive equestrian and enjoy showing my jumper in regional competitions. I also enjoy pursuing all the great recreational activities Colorado has to offer, such as skiing and hiking, with my husband and two Great Danes.
Kurt Sultzman, CPA, MBA
FRACTIONAL CFO
Over my 20-year career, I have served companies in the roles of CFO, controller, general manager, and entrepreneur. My experience is diverse, but my passion is the same: I enjoy supporting great business people in achieving their goals and dreams.
As a CFO, I have actively participated in the success of companies during times of transition, including openings, restructures, and mergers. In the course of regular business operations, I have facilitated improvements in organizations through strong, integrated production controls and accounting systems. My experience spans the hospital, home care, medical device, construction, and education industries.
My undergraduate degrees are in Business Finance and Economics from the University of Puget Sound. I also have an MBA in Accounting and Finance from Regis University, and I hold an active CPA license in the state of Colorado.
My family and I love the natural beauty of Colorado. We particularly enjoy fishing, hiking, and snowshoeing. Additionally, we are responsible Labrador Retriever breeders and have three lab family members of our own.
Chris Gwiazda, JD, MBA
FRACTIONAL CFO
I have a passion for working with smart and talented teams to grow their businesses. In contributing to diverse enterprises for more than 20 years, I have grown from a foundation in strategy, planning, and analysis, to a wide skill set that includes accounting, banking, and finance, as well as human resources and information technology.
After a start in public accounting at KPMG, I joined the FP&A group at HBO at a time of explosive growth and rose to the level of VP. Subsequently, I was the CFO of venture- and private equity-backed companies in the media and tech space, including two exits. Since settling into the Boulder area five years ago, I have served as the CFO of a real estate development and management company and started two other businesses.
I have collected a BA in Political Science from Columbia University, an MBA from New York University, and a JD from Rutgers Law School. At various times in my career, I have held the CPA certification, been a member of the New York State Bar, and held the SPHR certification.
Outside of work, I am trying to pass on whatever I have learned to my two amazing kids. I am also an avid runner and hold my private pilot’s license.
Carol Wood, MBA
FRACTIONAL CFO
My passion is contributing my accounting and finance expertise to help teams in early-stage companies transform an idea into a scalable, efficient, and functional operating environment. I am grateful to have been part of several companies in the technology and SaaS space that have been successful in building strong teams that work together to achieve this goal.
After starting my career in the technology practice of Arthur Andersen, I took a job with one of my clients, Intrado, as their Controller, taking the company public. From there, I was the CFO of Freshwater Software, PaySimple, and Dizzion, all of which had successful private equity or strategic exits. In addition to financial planning, board and investor communications, and financial operations, I have led risk management, human resources, and legal functions.
I earned my bachelor's degree in accounting at Illinois Wesleyan University and my MBA from the University of Colorado. I have been a steering committee member of CFO Leadership Council, am the president of my HOA, and volunteer at the Denver Dumb Friends League. I have run 9 marathons and numerous half marathons, triathlons, and other races. I also love tennis, hiking, and stealing as much time as I can with my teenage twins.
Steven Westberg, MBA
FRACTIONAL CFO
I started my career in the extraordinarily difficult aviation industry (capital and labor and information intensive, highly cyclical, low margin, regulated and competitive. And glamorous). I’ve applied what I learned there across several industries, including SaaS, cloud computing, and a 4,000-employee residential technology installation company.
I’ve led the restructuring of several struggling companies (including some on the cusp of bankruptcy), and I’ve guided companies to and through several exits, including a traditional IPO, a public listing through a SPAC merger, a private equity-led majority recap, a sale to a strategic buyer and a sale to a financial buyer.
Business, I think, is fascinating. I enjoy working together as a team to achieve success in the face of multiple challenges and opportunities.
I have an MBA from Columbia University, and an undergraduate degree in, yes, Architectural Psychology (my parents had the same reaction).
When not working, I’m often outside, and have climbed, thus far, 42 of the 50 state high points and two international high points, including Africa’s Mt. Kilimanjaro.
David Ramich, MBA
FRACTIONAL CFO
As part of the team at Ascent CFO, the opportunity to help drive results with a number of different companies across a variety of industries and multiple stages of growth is very appealing.
As a seasoned CFO/COO, I have been deeply involved in finance, strategy, marketing, and operations management for lower middle market growth companies. In addition, I have significant finance and M&A experience through my roles with private equity and investment banking firms. My experience is primarily in the B2B SaaS and tech enabled service industry, as well as raising and launching an oversubscribed $160 million private equity software growth fund.
I hold a BA in economics from Davidson College, where I played division 1 soccer, and an MBA from the Darden School at the University of Virginia.
As a father of three, the majority of my free time is spent chasing around little ones, but I enjoy playing golf, skiing, and working out when time permits!
Lizette Peña, CPA
fractional VP of Finance
At Ascent CFO Solutions, I am able to combine my accounting and auditing expertise with my hands-on business experience. It’s very rewarding for me to be able to problem-solve for my clients and leave things in better shape than I found them, accounting and business-wise that is!
I began my career in public accounting and hold a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Central Florida in Accounting. As a licensed CPA in Colorado and Florida, I’ve worked with both public and private companies in a variety of industries, including construction, real estate, renewable energy, health care, professional services, high-tech and communications, distribution services, travel and entertainment and non-profit organizations.
When I’m not working, I am passionate about volunteering my professional skills to local non-profit organizations by serving on Board of Directors, finance committees, and treasurer functions. I enjoy traveling, listening to live music and dancing, being outdoors hiking and biking, or just taking in some sunshine with a good book.
Derek Johnson
FRACTIONAL VP of Finance
I have close to 20 years of finance and accounting experience in VC and PE backed companies in a variety of industries ranging from SaaS to Consumer Goods.
I began my career in commercial banking with Silicon Valley Bank before moving on to work as a Controller for one of my SaaS clients, eventually helping to sell it to a strategic investor. Since then, I've held roles as Controller, Director of FP&A, and Director of Finance for companies ranging from $5MM to $95MM in annual revenue. My responsibilities have included the ground-up building of KPIs and financial processes as well as diligence and integration of both buy-side and sell-side M&A. I bring these experiences to my work with clients as a Fractional VP of Finance at Ascent CFO Solutions.
I attended the University of Colorado, Boulder, and live in Denver with my wife, daughter, dog, and two cats. When I’m not on the soccer field sidelines, I love working on broken old houses and broken old BMWs and turning a few laps at High Plains Raceway.
Megan Anderson, MA, CPA
Fractional VP of Finance
I’m a seasoned accounting professional experienced with both public and private companies in a variety of industries, including oil and gas, utilities, financial services, private equity, healthcare, and nonprofit foundations.
As a Fractional Controller at Ascent CFO Solutions, I enjoy helping clients with their financial needs, streamlining processes, maximizing efficiencies, and being an integral part of their overall success. Previous to Ascent CFO, I led an accounting team for a private equity firm in Denver. I have a passion for leadership and building teams, I thrive in faced paced environments, and have excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Colorado at Boulder, as well as a Master of Professional Accountancy degree from the Metropolitan State University of Denver. I’m also a licensed CPA in Colorado. When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and watching my children in their sports endeavors. I’m an avid cyclist and love being outdoors.
James Rickey
FRACTIONAL Controller
I enjoy the ability to leverage my 25+ years of accounting and hands-on business experience to help clients solve problems, discover efficiencies, streamline accounting processes, and achieve their financial goals.
Throughout my career, I have worked as a Controller for small to medium-sized businesses implementing accounting systems and processes, managing day-to-day accounting processes and teams, and executing budgeting and financial modeling. I have worked in a diverse array of industries, including SaaS, AdTech, Marketing, Media, Professional Services, Architecture/Engineering, Construction, and Manufacturing. I am passionate about fueling the entrepreneurial spirit in small and medium-sized businesses that are privately held or VC-backed. It’s immensely satisfying to help a business or a team realize their potential and be part of that process.
My education includes a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting. When not working, I enjoy attending live music concerts, spending time with my family, tabletop gaming, hiking, exploring the Colorado outdoors, and traveling to new places.
Kyndal Jones
Fractional controller
I have over 25 years of financial accounting experience, ranging from startups to large corporations. As a Fractional Controller at Ascent CFO Solutions, I am able to use my extensive experience to help our clients succeed.
I have been fortunate to work in a vast array of industries, including SaaS, professional services, franchising, nonprofits, retail, and entertainment, to name a few. My experience includes running all aspects of a law firm, which I expanded from nine employees to over 50 employees across 3 states. As I've progressed in my career, I've realized that enabling companies' growth—especially startups—is my passion. It is so gratifying to take a business from pre-revenue generation to full-blown operations. I am skilled at streamlining processes and creating efficiency, and I have completed multiple system implementations.
I was born and raised in Colorado and I am a University of Colorado graduate with a B.S. in Accounting. I am also Xero certified, Gusto People Advisor certified, and a QuickBooks Online Proadvisor.
In my free time, I enjoy cooking and exploring the wonderful outdoors of Colorado with my husband, daughters, and sons.
Krissy Edwards, MA
Fractional Controller
I have over 20 years of experience in financial accounting, working in both medium and small businesses. As a Fractional Controller at Ascent CFO Solutions, I enjoy using my diverse and in-depth experience to help our clients achieve their financial goals.
I have worked in a variety of industries, including auto, retail, banking, and healthcare. In each of these industries, I have played a critical role in the transition of restructures and mergers. I have established and implemented accounting processes and procedures instrumental to the growth of companies and the achievement of their financial goals. I am passionate about building relationships and collaborating with company leadership on simplifying processes and increasing efficiencies.
My education includes a Master’s Degree in Professional Accounting and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting. When I am not working, I love being outdoors, hiking, biking, and walking with my husband and my 3 kids. We also like to travel to new places, which most often feature an ocean and a beach.
Diane Georgia, CPA
Fractional CONTROLLER
As part of the Ascent CFO team, I am able to combine my 25+ years of experience with my passion for accounting and problem solving to help clients with their financial needs.
I began my career in large local CPA firms working in both tax and audit. After leaving public accounting, I worked in a variety of industries including distribution, telecom emergency services, apparel, grocery, renewable energy, and contractor supply. Most of my career has been spent working in day-to-day accounting processes. I enjoy using my attention to detail to find solutions to questions and problems.
I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University of Denver and hold a CPA license in Colorado.
Originally from Northern California, I moved to Colorado to go to college and never looked back. My husband and I have two children. Our son is a photographer in Chicago and our daughter works in the criminal justice re-entry system in Delaware. In our spare time, we enjoy camping, hiking, and spending time with our family.
Joanna Shear, CPA
fractional CONTROLLER
With over 20 years of experience in a variety of industries I enjoy working at Ascent because I have a passion for helping clients find efficiencies and providing value added insights for key business decisions.
My career started at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Audit where I also spent a couple years in management consulting working with Fortune 500 companies. I spent several years in the tech industry where I gained experience in financial planning, analysis, and reporting as well as process implementation.
Over the past 5 years, I worked as a Controller for small to medium clients handling implementation of accounting systems and processes, as well as financial modeling used for budgeting purposes and investor meetings.
I hold a B.A. in Business from the University of California, Riverside and a CPA (licensed in CA).
In my free time, I very much enjoy cycling, hiking, yoga, and spending time outdoors with my husband and two boys. When possible, I love traveling to new places.
Chad Havas
Financial Analyst
As a Financial Analyst at Ascent CFO Solutions, I apply my problem-solving skills and analytical approach to find creative solutions to companies' unique challenges. I develop modern and robust data visualizations to provide new insights for our clients so they can make informed decisions.
Prior to working with Ascent CFO Solutions, I worked in the education field teaching a variety of mathematics, statistics, and technical topics, including advanced analysis courses and providing training for corporate employees on analysis techniques and leveraging digital tools. I also had my hands on several projects for new businesses developing internal tools for analysis as their businesses grew. These prior experiences have developed my passion for tackling new problems and finding innovative ways to provide solutions to clients.
I received my Bachelor of Science in Economics and Management Sciences from the University of California at San Diego. I enjoy improvised comedy, frisbee, and cooking. When I'm not doing one of those things, I'm wrestling with my cat, Ra.
Desiree McMahan
Accounting Manager
As an Accounting Manager, I bring over 20 years of public and private accounting experience within small to midsize companies across a variety of industries, including manufacturing, retail, and professional services.
I spent nearly 14 years working for a multi-location concrete manufacturing company that more than doubled its size and expanded internationally during my tenure. Some of my career highlights include managing a successful ERP system conversion, creating a new general ledger and financial reporting processes from scratch while reducing time to close, and leading independent financial audits which resulted in an unqualified opinion-clean report every year. In my role, I strive to create processes within the accounting department while maintaining efficient procedures for automated and recurring tasks.
I grew up in Colorado and graduated from the University of Colorado at Boulder where I received a B.A. in Accounting. In my personal time, I enjoy snowmobiling and hiking in the mountains with my husband, four children, and two dogs. I am also happy to spend time at home decorating, making-over furniture, and organizing.
Lisa Tritz, MBA
ACCOUNTING MANAGER
In my 15+ years of accounting management, I’ve had the privilege of working in a variety of industries such as mining, healthcare, wellness, and professional services as well as various startup environments. I enjoy working with organizations of different types and sizes and in teams where I can collaborate, solve problems, provide guidance, and help develop others.
I received my bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of Colorado at Boulder. After two years in public accounting, I switched gears and took a job in education where I spent seven years teaching in a private high school. After that, I studied at the University of Colorado, Denver to receive my MBA and master’s in accounting. I started my career in corporate accounting in 2007 and have enjoyed every new challenge since!
I am a Colorado native, and in my spare time, I enjoy watching all kinds of sports including countless hours at the ice rink for my husband’s and kids’ hockey games, going to Broncos and Avs games, going to the gym, playing a little golf, and spending time with my two Bulldogs, Allie and Oshie.
Sarah Pronovost, MBA
Accounting Manager
As an Accounting Manager at Ascent CFO Solutions, I love to enhance operational processes, ensure compliance and accuracy, and drive gains in productivity. With over 15 years of accounting experience across industries that include manufacturing, real estate, and government, I’m always excited to take on a new challenge.
Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with a diverse set of clients, offering not just traditional accounting services but also software implementation and training. This multi-layered approach allows me to bring a well-rounded perspective to financial management. I am able to tailor solutions to meet the unique needs of each client.
I earned my MBA from Azusa Pacific University. Outside of working hours, I enjoy spending time with my beautiful family, hiking, and cooking.
Katherine Ann Cantrell
Accounting Manager
I have over 30 years of experience in accounting and finance, and I was the company’s first employee before it even got its name! I have worked in every aspect of accounting from accounts receivable, human relations, and account reconciliation, to financial analysis and improving processes. If it involves numbers and problem-solving, I love the challenge!
I studied Finance at the University of Georgia where I specialized in international and domestic banking. After receiving my degree, I sold an educational program door-to-door on crews that traveled from California to Chicago. After three years and working my way up to National Trainer, I returned to working in finance for the Boulder Country Club. I then moved to a Boulder family office where I was Vice President of Administration, specializing in brokerage account management and administration of the office staff. Once I had children, I opened my own firm to do accounting for individuals and businesses and have not stopped since.
In my free time, I adore spending time with our large and growing family. My hobbies include mountain biking, yoga, exercise, movies, writing, and cooking. Life is extraordinary and so worth living to the fullest!
Joshua Paul
Accounting Manager
As part of the team at Ascent CFO, I am excited to work with a variety of companies at many different stages of growth. I deeply value the opportunity to drive results, partner with teams, and identify opportunities and solutions to enable the organization to accomplish its goals.
Upon completing my degree in accounting at the University of Central Missouri, I jumped right into the accounting workforce. Despite playing college baseball competitively, the pros were not in my future. I now have 15+ years of deep accounting experience. Most recently, prior to joining the Ascent CFO team, I spent the last 9 years in construction doing all types of accounting with a specialization in cost accounting.
Beyond loving to solve complex financial situations, my favorite job is being a dad to my two children. In my free time, I love trying new foods, hanging with my giant breed dogs, and being out on the baseball field coaching my son’s baseball team.
Emily Bokatzian, MA, CPA
ACCOUNTING MANAGER
As an Accounting Manager at Ascent CFO Solutions, I love solving problems to unlock opportunities, learning about new businesses, and meeting intelligent, kind, and interesting people.
Before starting with Ascent CFO, I worked at a local Boulder CPA firm helping business clients set up accounting systems and prepare tax returns. Prior to that, I held a variety of accounting roles in several technology and manufacturing companies including Ball Aerospace and LogRhythm. I am experienced in general ledger accounting, reconciliations, inventory, and fixed assets. I have set up many small businesses accounting processes from the ground up as well as consulted on existing business operations to ensure the financial systems are running optimally.
I have a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Wayne State University in Detroit and a master’s degree in Accountancy from Colorado State University. I am a licensed CPA in Colorado. In my free time, I love spending time with my husband and son. I also enjoy hiking, yoga, and home projects.
Cindy Newton
ACCOUNTING MANAGER
I joined Dan at Ascent CFO in 2019 and enjoy being a strategic accounting partner for our clients. With over 25 years of accounting experience, I am able to draw on my knowledge from my previous roles to make a positive impact on our clients.
My career path includes experiences at Arthur Andersen LLP, Xcel Energy Inc (for 20 years), and Aduro Advisors LLC.
For 15 years, I was a competitive swimmer and I feel that many of those skills have transitioned into my accounting work ethic. I’m dedicated, hard-working, and I always aim to be a valuable team member. I have a B.S. in Accounting from New Mexico State University.
In my spare time, I enjoy skiing, running, swimming, and reading. However, most of my time is spent shuttling my two daughters to their various sporting and dancing activities.
Jessica Hullinger, MA
Senior Accountant
I am a dedicated and detail-oriented accounting professional with a passion for numbers and a knack for problem-solving. With 9+ years of experience in the field, I have developed a strong understanding of financial principles and possess a keen eye for accuracy. My expertise extends across a wide range of accounting areas, including financial statement preparation, budgeting, audit, and day-to-day operation.
Beyond my professional achievements, I am known for my friendly demeanor, approachability, and ability to work well under pressure. I believe in fostering strong client relationships built on trust, integrity, and open communication.
I hold a Master's degree in accounting from American Public University, and I continue to expand my knowledge through ongoing professional development. In my spare time, I enjoy ultra running, spending time outdoors, and being the best mom I can be.
Sylas Schutt
Senior Accountant
Throughout my professional career in accounting, I have gained extensive experience in a variety of financial functions, including treasury management, reconciliation, and budgeting.
My financial expertise extends to general ledger accounting, handling intercompany expenses, and effectively managing foreign currency adjustments. My experiences have enabled me to grow my financial acumen and contribute to improving various financial aspects within organizations. I like the challenge of taking on a new project and creating a successful process that helps a company run smoothly and accurately.
I graduated from Fort Lewis College with a major in accounting and a minor in data analysis. In my free time, I enjoy being active by running and swimming and traveling to new places when I get the chance!
Maura Saunders
Senior Accountant
Before joining the Ascent CFO Solutions team, I accumulated 6+ years of accounting experience focused on supporting small businesses in my community. As a result, my time has been spent in multiple industries including manufacturing, advertising, and non-profit. This path has enabled me to grow beyond traditional accounting and gain experience in finance, giving me an elevated understanding of the importance of high-quality accounting work.
My family's passion for entrepreneurship inspired me to obtain my BS in Accounting from Metro State University, where I graduated with Summa Cum Laude honors.
When I’m not in the office, I will likely be found spending time with my young daughter and husband (or doing laundry). We love camping and all things outdoors. As a third-generation Coloradan, I enjoy just about every sport this state has to offer, and I even lived in Breckenridge for four years where I could take advantage of it all!
Courtney Gilcrest
marketing MANAGER
As the marketing coordinator for Ascent CFO Solutions, I help this incredible team reach companies who can benefit from the experience and flexibility of a Fractional CFO and supporting fractional financial professionals.
I graduated with honors from The Ohio State University with a B.S. in Business Administration and Marketing. I became passionate about entrepreneurship during an internship at the Nashville Entrepreneurship Center, and I have been working with small businesses, startups, and solopreneurs ever since.
Outside of work, you can find me on a walk with my husband enjoying our neighborhood and local parks, trying out a new restaurant or recipe in my kitchen, and cheering on my OSU Buckeyes during football season.
“Ascent CFO Solutions was a great partner for Halp from our early days in Techstars all the way through our acquisition. Their team set up our accounting processes from scratch and built financial models for our Seed Round. They were also valuable teammates when it came to preparing for due diligence for Halp’s acquisition by Atlassian. I highly recommend Ascent CFO for any SaaS company experiencing fast growth.”
Interested in joining our Ascent CFO team? Visit our Careers page to see our open positions.