Webinar
Join us for a live virtual session on Thursday, September 18, 2025
12p–1p PT / 3p–4p ET
Join us for a timely and practical webinar designed to help you strategically develop and navigate an efficient approach to working with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Cost Allocation Services (CAS).
Gain expert insights into how to optimize proposal submissions, accelerate negotiation timelines, and prepare your organization for potential regulatory shifts. Whether you’re preparing for upcoming shifts or seeking clarity in today’s evolving environment, this webinar offers the tools and insights you need to stay ahead.
About the Speakers
Gil Tran is Senior Specialist Leader, Grants Management at Attain Partners. Previously, he served as a Senior Policy Analyst with the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), Office of Federal Financial Management (OFFM).
A 27-year veteran of OMB, Gil has often served as a go-to field expert and is a sought-after presenter who has earned a reputation as a source of knowledge and an engaging industry speaker. Among his contributions in shaping the financial assistance landscape for future generations are: helping reduce the audit burden for both auditees and federal government oversight agencies; playing an integral role in the development of the Uniform Grant Guidance (UGG) and consolidating cost principles in the guidance; and, in 2005, leading the development of the first-ever government-wide waiver to provide relief to grantees caused by natural disasters.
Gil’s professional contributions have been recognized with several awards, including the OMB Robert Damus Award, the National Grants Management Association (NGMA) Newton Award, and the Association of Government Accountants (AGA) Frank Greathouse Distinguished Leadership Award—all in 2022—as well as the National College and University Research Administrators Association (NCURA) Joseph F. Carrabino Award in 2015. He is widely recognized as an outstanding leader in the grants management field. Gil received a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from George Mason University, Virginia. He is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Additionally, he chaired the Diversity Committee for the U.S. Tennis Association (Mid–Atlantic Section).
Michael Leonard is a Senior Grants Management Consultant at Attain Partners. Prior to joining the firm in July 2025, he had over 33 years of progressive federal financial management experience within the Department of Health & Human Services as a College & University National Specialist and Supervisory Accountant. Being nationally recognized as an expert in college and university cost allocation, with extensive leadership in high-stakes negotiations, regulatory compliance, and inter-agency coordination, he demonstrated the ability to drive significant cost savings, lead cross-functional teams, and provide national-level guidance and training on cost principles under 2 CFR Part 200. He has a proven track record in managing field office operations, mentoring staff, and representing federal interests in detailed presentations and Q&A at national and virtual conferences.
Michael brings deep expertise in federal financial management and cost allocation. Before joining the firm in July 2025, Michael spent over 33 years at the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, where he served as both a College & University National Specialist and Supervisory Accountant.
Nationally recognized for his leadership in college and university cost allocation, Michael has led high-stakes negotiations, driven regulatory compliance, and facilitated inter-agency coordination across complex federal landscapes. His work under 2 CFR Part 200 has shaped national guidance and training efforts, helping institutions navigate cost principles with confidence and precision.
Michael’s proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, mentor staff, and manage field office operations has consistently delivered measurable cost savings and strategic outcomes. He is a sought-after speaker and federal representative, known for his engaging presentations and insightful Q&A sessions at both national and virtual conferences.
Indirect Cost Rate Policy Updates and Guidance
With decades of experience in the research ecosystem, Attain Partners is ready to help your institution navigate these changes.
