About Barnes Preston

Originally from Brazil, Eliwar Decarvalho brings nearly 30 years of experience in corporate and individual taxation, as well as internal and client bookkeeping. With 20 years of dedicated service to the firm, he offers invaluable expertise—particularly in the area of international taxation. His deep knowledge and approachable nature make him a trusted resource for both clients and colleagues. Ask him about his new grandson, and you'll see his face light up with pride!

Having managed financial and accounting offices since 1992, Melanie brings extensive industry expertise to our team. Her strong background in customer service and operations management ensures our clients receive reliable support, while helping keep our firm organized and running smoothly.

Education/Affiliations

Bachelor of Business Administration – Pensacola Christian College
Member of American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)

Coltin earned his Master of Accountancy in 2025 and was quickly promoted to Staff Accountant. His ability to combine sound accounting principles with practical judgment sets him apart from others at his experience level. He is currently in the process of sitting for his CPA exams.

Education

Master of Accounting – Nova Southeastern University
Bachelor of Business Administration, Major in Accounting – Nova Southeastern University

Licenses/Affiliations

Member of American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), National Conference of CPA Practitioners (NCCPAP)

Born and raised in Brazil, Cristiana worked diligently to build a life in the United States. She brings strong bookkeeping expertise and exceptional organizational skills to our firm, making her a valuable member of the team.

Michelle joined our team in 2024, bringing a diverse background in project management and office administration that enables her to keep projects moving forward. Her friendly demeanor and strong work ethic have been a valuable asset to our firm.

Education

Bachelor in Business Administration – American Intercontinental University

Mr. Barnes practiced as a CPA for 50 years before retiring from active licensure on December 31, 2024. A graduate of The College of William and Mary, he spent eight years with PricewaterhouseCoopers in Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and Fort Lauderdale. In 1977, he founded Barnes & Associates, CPAs, which merged into Barnes Preston Global CPAs in 2020. He remains active as a consultant to a diverse client base.

Mr. Barnes has served for over 30 years as chief editor of Common Questions Asked by Foreign People About U.S. Taxes and authored a forward-looking analysis, Economic Forecast for South Florida Residential Real Estate Market 2008–2013.

He was active in MSI Global Alliance for more than 20 years, serving on its Management Board and representing North America, and participating in numerous international initiatives. He also held leadership roles with the Florida Institute of CPAs and the AICPA, including Congressional liaison work and a long-term role as Campaign Treasurer for a South Florida congressman.

His consulting specialties include tax and audit services for closely held businesses, international taxation, estate planning, real estate, franchises, charitable foundations, and various industries.