Accavallo & Company, LLC

MEET OUR TEAM

At Accavallo & Company LLC, our dedicated team members, embody our core values of responsibility, trust, commitment to excellence, and empathy in every endeavor.

Karen Bodnar

Tax Manager, CPA

Cheryl Caligiure

Bookkeeper

Jennifer Cristo

Bookkeeper

Brian Ferris

Senior Accountant

Sherri Fisher

Tax Manager

Corin Fuller

Client Service Specialist

Laura j. Luciani

Bookkeeping Supervisor

Joseph Markarian

Senior Manager, CPA, MBA

Brittany Marino

Senior Accountant

Linda McQuillan

Office Manager

Donna Skurja

Administrative Assistant

Diane Wilkes

Bookkeeper

Cherie Worcester

Tax Manager

Melanie Weiss

Karen Bodnar

Tax Manager, CPA

Karen L. Bodnar is a tax manager at Accavallo and Company, LLC, with a specialized focus on corporate and individual tax. As a Certified Public Accountant in Connecticut, she brings over 30 years of expertise to her role. Karen holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Central Connecticut State University, providing her with a strong educational foundation in the field.

One of Karen’s notable strengths lies in her diverse industry specialization. She possesses extensive knowledge and experience in handling tax matters for businesses including:

  • Construction
  • Manufacturing
  • Service businesses
  • Restaurants

These industries often have unique tax considerations and regulations, and Karen’s expertise allows her to provide tailored tax strategies that meet the specific needs of clients in these fields. Whether it’s advising on corporate tax planning, preparing individual tax returns, or navigating complex tax regulations, Karen’s in-depth understanding of tax laws and her industry-specific knowledge make her a valuable asset to both businesses and individuals seeking tax assistance.

In addition to her industry specialization, Karen is an active member of professional organizations, including the Connecticut Society of Certified Public Accountants (CSCPA) and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). By actively participating in these associations, she stays informed about the latest developments, trends, and best practices in the accounting profession. This dedication to professional growth ensures that Karen remains up-to-date with changes in tax laws and regulations, enabling her to provide accurate and effective guidance to her clients.  She also enjoys traveling the world to experience other cultures and spending time with family and friends.

BRIAN FERRIS

Senior Accountant

Since joining Accavallo & Company at the start of 2020, Brian Ferris has established himself as a skilled accountant specializing in single audits, individual tax returns, and small business support. With his expertise and technological skillset, Brian ensures accurate financial records and regulatory compliance for his clients.

Brian takes pride in his strong attention to detail and analytical skills that allow him to provide essential support for individuals and businesses seeking financial success. With a passion for delivering exceptional service, Brian is committed to helping his clients achieve their goals through his comprehensive knowledge and personalized approach. Brian is a graduate of Central Connecticut State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting.

Brian has expertise in the following industries and areas of accounting:

  • Individual Tax Returns
  • Manufacturing & Distribution
  • Private Education Institutions
  • Healthcare Facilities
  • Non-profits
  • Housing and Urban Development audits under HUD handbook guidelines
  • Federal and State of Connecticut single audits under Uniform Guidance and Audit of States, Local Government and Non-Profit Organizations and the State of Connecticut single audit act
  • GAAP Compliance

Outside of the office Brian enjoys hitting the golf course, playing soccer with friends, and cheering for the New York Rangers.

SHERRI FISHER

Tax Manager

Sherri Fisher is a Tax Manager at Accavallo & Company, LLC.  Sherri has longstanding expertise in Trust and Estate Taxation, Eldercare, and Estate planning. Sherri appreciates the relationships she has built with estate planning attorneys and advisors, to provide a team approach to assisting her clients. Sherri also has seasoned experience in business and individual taxation and is partial to assisting start-ups in developing overall accounting and operating plans.

Prior to joining Accavallo & Company, LLC, Sherri was a manager in a large firm, servicing high net worth trust clients, business, and personal clients. She was also a Partner in a large bookkeeping firm, which specialized in cloud accounting systems for regional and national companies. Sherri led a team in assisting clients to organize their accounting systems.  She is a graduate of Florida Atlantic University with a B.S. degree in Accounting.    

Sherri’s experience includes working with companies and organizations in a variety of industries including:

  • Investment Trusts

  • DAPT and Family Investment Partnerships

  • Estate and Probate Administration

  • E-Commerce

  • Manufacturing

  • Construction

  • Real Estate Investment

  • Marketing and Service-based industries

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Sherri is an Intuit Advanced Pro Advisor, Intuit Future Firm Advisory Board member, member of the Valley WIN Network, and proudly served as past Connecticut Public School liaison for the Yale Tommy Fund for Childhood Cancer. Sherri enjoys time with her family, Cleveland sports, thrifting and gardening.

Corin Fuller

Client Service Specialist

Corin Fuller is a Client Service Specialist who joined Accavallo & Company, LLC in January 2021. Corin graduated from Southern Connecticut State University with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Communication with a specialization in Advertising and Promotions. Corin has also studied at the CBS Media Arts Center completing courses on television broadcasting, copywriting, and digital production. Corin has used her skills to complete several marketing projects at our firm.

Throughout her career, Corin has excelled in providing expert assistance to clients, using an attentive and empathetic approach. With a passion for customer satisfaction and a knack for problem-solving, Corin is committed to delivering top-notch service tailored to meet our clients’ needs.

Corin’s hobbies and interests include:

  • Trying new food recipes
  • Going to concerts with friends
  • Reading

LAURA j. LUCIANI

Bookkeeping Supervisor

Laura is a dedicated bookkeeping supervisor with over twenty years of experience in financial management and accounting practices. Laura is currently overseeing a team of skilled bookkeepers here at Accavallo & Company, LLC. She is committed to ensuring accurate financial reporting and streamlined accounting processes. She has successfully supported businesses of all sizes, from startups to established corporations. She celebrates her clients’ successes and supports their growth by providing accurate and dependable bookkeeping with meticulous attention to detail.

With a strong background in QuickBooks, Net Suite, Buildium and 1099-ETC. Laura excels in training staff, implementing efficient bookkeeping systems, and maintaining compliance with financial regulations. Laura is in the process of obtaining her Certified Public Bookkeeper license.

In addition to daily operations, Laura is passionate about mentoring team members, fostering a collaborative environment, and leveraging technology to improve productivity. Outside of work, she enjoys volunteering her time with her sons PTA and currently holds the position of President at The Southport Fire Department. She also loves traveling, and cheering on her sons at their sporting events, which contributes to a well-rounded approach to leadership.

JOSEPH MARKARIAN

Senior Manager, CPA, MBA

Joseph Markarian is a skilled senior tax manager at Accavallo & Company LLC, with a broad range of experience in public accounting. He specializes in managing attest engagements, reviewing individual and corporate tax returns, and developing tax-saving strategies for clients. Prior to joining Accavallo & Company LLC, Joseph worked with other accounting firms, where he supervised attest engagements, reviewed tax returns, and built strong client relationships. He is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in the State of Connecticut.

Joseph actively participates in annual attestation engagements for a diverse range of clients. In addition, with an in-depth understanding of tax laws and regulations spanning multiple states, he provides invaluable guidance to clients. Joseph is highly regarded for his meticulous attention to detail, analytical skills in tackling complex matters, and unwavering commitment to providing exceptional client service. His combination of expertise, experience, and dedication makes him a valuable asset to Accavallo & Company LLC and the clients he serves.

Joseph’s experience includes working with companies and organizations in a variety of industries including:

  • Manufacturing & Distribution
  • Construction
  • Non-profits
  • Services companies
  • Pension and profit-sharing plans
  • Retail companies
 

Joseph is a graduate of Southern Connecticut State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. Joseph furthered his education by obtaining a Master’s in Business Administration degree with a concentration in Finance from UMass Lowell. Joseph is also a member of the Connecticut Society of Certified Public Accountants (CSCPA) and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). These memberships allow him to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field of accounting, ensuring that he provides his clients with the most effective and reliable advice possible.

Joseph’s hobbies and interests include:

  • Traveling with my family
  • Reading history books
  • Playing golf
  • Outdoor activities including gardening and yardwork

BRITTANY MARINO

Senior Accountant

Brittany is a highly experienced accountant who graduated from Sacred Heart University in 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting. With over 4 years of experience, specializing in construction, employee benefit plans, and small businesses, she is well-versed in providing comprehensive financial services, including maintaining financial records, preparing individual tax returns, and developing effective tax planning strategies for individuals and businesses.

Brittany evaluates financial data with her strong analytical skills to identify trends, potential risks, and opportunities for her clients. By building strong professional relationships, Brittany creates an environment of trust and open communication, allowing her to tailor her services to each client’s specific goals. With her empathetic nature and unwavering commitment to her clients’ success, Brittany consistently delivers reliable financial guidance to support the growth and prosperity of her clients’ businesses.

Brittany’s experience includes working with companies and organizations in a variety of industries including:

  • Construction
  • Manufacturing & Distribution
  • Employee Benefit Plans
  • Non-profits
  • Healthcare Facilities
  • GAAP Compliance
  • Individual Tax Returns

 

Brittany’s hobbies and interests include:

  • Traveling
  • Cooking and Baking
  • Listening to country music

CHERIE WORCESTER

Tax Manager

Cherie Worcester is a Tax Manager at Accavallo & Company, LLC.  Cherie values her client relationships that she has built through her 35+ years in the accounting profession. 

Prior to joining Accavallo & Company, LLC, Cherie was a manager at a firm that services a range of industries as well as personal clients.  She is a graduate of the University of New Haven with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting.

Cherie has experience in many industries including:

  • Family-Run Companies
  • Medical & Dental practices
  • Restaurants
  • Manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Real Estate Investments
  • Service-based companies

Cherie’s greatest joy in life is her family, including her husband, 3 daughters and 5 grandchildren.  Her 16 years as a Girl Scout troop leader were very rewarding as is now watching her daughters become leaders and mentors themselves.  

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Sherri Fisher is a Tax Manager at Accavallo & Company, LLC.  Sherri has longstanding expertise in Trust and Estate Taxation, Eldercare, and Estate planning. Sherri appreciates the relationships she has built with estate planning attorneys and advisors, to provide a team approach to assisting her clients. Sherri also has seasoned experience in business and individual taxation and is partial to assisting start-ups in developing overall accounting and operating plans.

Prior to joining Accavallo & Company, LLC, Sherri was a manager in a large firm, servicing high net worth trust clients, business, and personal clients. She was also a Partner in a large bookkeeping firm, which specialized in cloud accounting systems for regional and national companies. Sherri led a team in assisting clients to organize their accounting systems.  She is a graduate of Florida Atlantic University with a B.S. degree in Accounting.    

Sherri’s experience includes working with companies and organizations in a variety of industries including:

  • Investment Trusts

  • DAPT and Family Investment Partnerships

  • Estate and Probate Administration

  • E-Commerce

  • Manufacturing

  • Construction

  • Real Estate Investment

  • Marketing and Service-based industries

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Sherri is an Intuit Advanced Pro Advisor, Intuit Future Firm Advisory Board member, member of the Valley WIN Network, and proudly served as past Connecticut Public School liaison for the Yale Tommy Fund for Childhood Cancer. Sherri enjoys time with her family, Cleveland sports, thrifting and gardening.