Email: bernadette_at_prevention_institute_dot_org

Bernadette joined Prevention Institute in 2022 as Finance Manager, bringing 25 years of experience in finance and accounting across both nonprofit and for-profit sectors. She manages the day-to-day operations of the finance and accounting department, ensures compliance with GAAP and internal controls, and leads the finance team through annual audits.

Bernadette began her career in Silicon Valley, working with software start-ups, biotech companies, and venture capitalist firms. In 2008, she established roots in the East Bay as a financial consultant serving organizations throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. As her client base grew, she narrowed her focus to nonprofits and community organizations.

From 2013 to 2022, Bernadette served as Finance Controller at Homebase, a San Francisco nonprofit that supports county and government entities serve the unhoused. During her consulting career, she provided finance and accounting services to Bay Area nonprofits and community organizations, including Galileo Learning, Raimi + Associates, People’s Grocery, Streetside Stories, BAYS, Spark, amongst others.

At Prevention Institute, Bernadette has prepared for and managed four successful single audits, adding to more than 20 successful audits completed over the course of her career. She and her team have also updated the organization’s accounting system and continue to fine-tune financial processes and management systems. Her experience in grants and fund accounting enables her to provide clear, accurate financial reporting to the Executive Team and Board Members.

Bernadette received her bachelor’s degree in Human Biodynamics from UC Berkeley, where she developed a strong interest in nutrition and public health. During college, she served as a Nutrition Peer Educator, worked at the Hall of Health, and completed an internship with Northern California Healthcare Executives at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco.

Although her career ultimately led her to finance, Prevention Institute’s health equity work continues to resonate with her interests and values.

Born and raised in the Bay Area, Bernadette currently resides in Vallejo, California. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, baking, dancing, paddleboarding, and spending time with family.