Bess Abernathy is in her third full season as the organization’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO). As the CFO, Abernathy controls all accounts payables, receivables, and all financial statements for the Pensacola Pelicans, Pelicans Training Academy, and Emerald Diamond Food and Beverage. Abernathy has more than 30 years experience in the accounting and finance industry that includes being the former CFO with The Studer Group and CFO for various portfolio companies managed by a venture capital firm in New Orleans. She is currently active in the restoration in the Belmont-Devilliers area of downtown Pensacola. She holds a CPA certification, Certified General Contractor’s License in Florida, and is a Certified Fraud Examiner. She received her MBA from the University of New Orleans after graduating from Pensacola Catholic High School. The Pensacola resident is a member of the American Institute of CPA’s, Florida Institute of CPA’s, Louisiana Society of CPA’s, Construction Specifications Institute, and the Healthcare Financial Management Association.

bess@pensacolapelicans.com