La-Tasha Patel is Child Trends’ vice president for finance and accounting. La-Tasha uses her formidable accounting and business background to develop strategic solutions for Child Trends. Her experience in public accounting and assurance work has given her a strong foundational knowledge in business and accounting, along with insights into the multitude of complexities in the government contracting space. After 12 years of public sector accounting, La-Tasha moved into the private sector.

La-Tasha is a licensed CPA in the state of Maryland and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. She has an extensive background in generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and cost principles related to government contractors, including Cost Accounting Standards (CAS) and Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR). With her deep knowledge of the key financial systems and compliance risk unique to government contractors, she is positioned to strategically enhance Child Trends’ partnerships with the public sector. La-Tasha is a thought leader who has written many government contracting blogs and white papers. She also enjoys mentoring her team, contributing to the betterment and success of their careers.

La-Tasha earned her Bachelor of Science in accounting from The University of South Florida. When not at work, La-Tasha enjoys all things nature with her husband, children, and dog, and actively supports the Southern California Food Allergy Institute and the Salvation Army.