LaNaria Barnes is a dedicated professional with a diverse background in accounting, spanning industries such as banking, retail, higher education, and non-profit organizations. Originally from New York, she has called Charlotte, North Carolina her home since 2007.
In her role as the Senior Director of Finance, she provides financial oversight for the organization by effectively managing the accounting, budgeting, auditing, and reporting of all NEEP financial activity.
Having realized her passion for non-profit finance during her tenure at a non-profit organization in 2016, LaNaria made a career transition and has since been committed to this field. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Hampton University and an MBA from Hofstra University. Recently, she achieved her CPA certification, further expanding her expertise in financial management.
Beyond her professional pursuits, LaNaria values quality time spent with her husband and sons. She enjoys exploring different cuisines, watching medical dramas, doing puzzles and working out. Her philosophy in life revolves around embracing joy, love, laughter, and humility. LaNaria draws inspiration from a quote by Simone Biles, reminding herself and others to celebrate every step taken towards achieving goals, rather than waiting for the destination to acknowledge progress.
Q: Name one thing you cannot live without.
A: Candy.
Q: If you could spend one week anywhere in the world, where would it be? Why?
A: Egypt. It's been a childhood dream I hope to fulfill one day.
Q: What's something about you that would surprise people?
A: I went from PreK to first grade - I skipped over kindergarten.
