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Today, uAspire announced the appointment of Casandra I. Scales as its new Chief Financial Officer, effective October 7, 2024. Scales joins uAspire from INROADS, Inc., where she served as Chief Financial Officer. Scales led the insourcing of the accounting department, improved financial controls, and efficiency, and implemented new technology systems enhancing operational productivity.

“It is my privilege to join uAspire, an organization that is making a profound impact on the lives of students, their families and the generations that follow.   With my background in finance and nonprofit leadership, I look forward to leveraging my experience to enhance our financial strategies and sustainability.  I am excited to contribute to our mission and collaborate with such a dedicated team to empower underrepresented students in their pursuit of higher education and lifelong success.”

As Chief Financial Officer, Scales will oversee all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis, and risk management. She will play a critical role in advancing uAspire's mission by ensuring the organization's fiscal health and sustainability.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have Casandra, a seasoned nonprofit finance expert and senior leader, joining our team," said Jaclyn Piñero, CEO of uAspire. "Throughout a rigorous national search process, Casandra's technical expertise, strategic insight, and deep commitment to our mission shined brightly. Casandra will be a tremendous asset to uAspire as we continue to grow our local, regional, and national work." 

Scales's career in financial management spans over 25 years, beginning as a Staff Auditor at Ernst & Young, LLP. She then served as an Internal Auditor at A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc., and later as a Senior Accountant at Carondelet Health System. In 2003, Scales joined the American Association of Orthodontists as Senior Manager of Accounting & Finance, eventually becoming Vice President of Finance and Accounting. Most recently, she served as Chief Financial Officer at INROADS, Inc., leading significant financial initiatives that improved efficiency and increased revenue.

Scales holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Duquesne University and a Master of Business Administration from Lindenwood University. She is known for her collaborative leadership style, strategic planning, and commitment to process improvement.