Member Spotlight – Kara Hefner, CPA, CIA, CFE
March 4, 2026
Kara Hefner, CPA, CIA, CFE
Audit Manager, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
Years in Higher Education: 6+
ACUA Involvement
ACUA Journal – Editor
ACUA Auditing and Accounting Principles Subcommittee ACUA Speaker
“Kara enjoys the opportunities to serve her ACUA community by sharing information to support other university auditors”
Professional Background
Kara L. Hefner, CPA, CIA, CFE is an Internal Audit Manager at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she has worked for the past six years. She has 19 additional years of internal auditing experience in university health care, Fortune 500 public utilities, and student loan guarantors. Kara holds degrees in math, economics, and accounting and began her career in public accounting.
In addition to being a frequent speaker at ACUA conferences, Kara is the current Editor of ACUA’s College & University Auditor Journal and is a member of the ACUA Auditing and Accounting Principles Subcommittee. Kara received the ACUA Member Excellence in Service award in 2025. In her free time, Kara participates in competitive swimming, teaching adult learn to swim classes, and has authored two books on her German from Russia heritage.
Spotlight Nomination
“Kara continuously encourages individuals to contribute to the ACUA Journal and always provides helpful feedback on articles. She is an active volunteer and embodies ACUA values through every interaction she has with members – her integrity is unquestionable, she is respectful, and always committed to excellence in her work and volunteer service.”