Allowability and Internal Controls

Bonnie Little Graham joined Brustein & Manasevit, PLLC in 2009. Ms. Graham actively represents federal education grantees and subgrantees in the resolution of adverse audit and program review determinations, false claims act investigations, and other administrative legal actions. Ms. Graham has successfully resolved significant audit findings for her clients through administrative appeal proceedings, as well as through settlement negotiations and cooperative audit resolution techniques. Ms. Graham also works closely with clients on issues pertaining to “high risk” grantee and subgrantee designations, and on cost allocation matters, including indirect cost rate development, negotiation, and application.

Ms. Graham regularly assists her clients with the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance) and other administrative statutes and regulations, such as the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA) and the Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR), providing workshops and trainings, developing compliant policies and procedures, and reviewing contracts and other grant-related documentation for compliance with federal requirements. Ms. Graham also works with clients on the requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), and Title IV of the Higher Education Act, conducting mock-reviews of program implementation and advising on federal requirements, best practices and allowable flexibilities.

Ms. Graham lives in Alameda, California. Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Graham worked as an associate at a corporate firm in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Andrew Ball joined Brustein & Manasevit, PLLC in January 2020. Mr. Ball works with clients on a number of issues related to the Higher Education Act programs, the Every Student Succeeds Act, and the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act. In addition, Mr. Ball assists clients with compliance issues under the OMB Uniform Grants Guidance and the Education Department General Administrative Regulations including ensuring policies and procedures are updated and accurate.

Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Ball worked in the General Counsel’s office at the District of Columbia Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) on issues ranging from the complaints under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to employment issues and charter school finances. Mr. Ball also served as a judicial intern in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas and as a substitute teacher in Houston public charter schools.

Mr. Ball received his Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and Communications from Tulane University in 2013. Mr. Ball received his Juris Doctor from American University Washington College of Law in 2019. Mr. Ball is a member of the District of Columbia Bar.