May is International Internal Audit Awareness Month

The Office of Internal Audit at Augusta University plays a behind-the-scenes yet critical role in keeping AU operating effectively and ethically. Whether you work in administration, academics, research or support services, understanding the role of Internal Audit can help you contribute to a stronger institution for everyone.

Scott Stevenson, assistant vice president and chief audit officer, leads the Internal Audit team, which includes Crystal Corey, audit manager; Sheryl Brown, senior information systems auditor; Rufus Copeland, senior auditor; and Lisa Kedigh, auditor.

What is Internal Audit’s mission?

The purpose of the Office of Internal Audit at AU is to provide independent and objective assurance and advisory services to add value and improve operations while promoting accountability and transparency to maintain public trust. Internal Audit helps AU accomplish its objectives by bringing a systematic, disciplined approach to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of governance, risk management, compliance and internal control processes.

In practical terms, the Internal Audit team:

• Reviews departmental processes and operations to identify areas for improvement
• Evaluates compliance with university policies, state and federal regulations and industry best practices
• Assesses internal controls to ensure assets are protected and operations are efficient
• Offers recommendations to enhance procedures/internal controls, mitigate risk and support strategic goals

How Internal Audit can help

• Advisory services such as new system/process consultations, policy and procedure reviews or strategic planning support
• Departmental risk reviews/assessments or control self-assessment facilitation
• Training and education, such as fraud awareness workshops or internal controls training
• Process improvement support, such as business process mapping
• Ethics and compliance support

Common misconceptions

One common myth is that Internal Audit is only utilized when something goes wrong. In reality, the audit team is a proactive resource, available to help departments identify and resolve potential issues before they escalate into larger problems. The office’s goal is not to “catch” anyone but to support continuous improvement and institutional success.

How does Internal Audit affect faculty and staff?

Faculty and staff may interact with the Office of Internal Audit in several ways:

• Participate in routine audits of departmental activities
• Provide input during risk assessments or consultations
• Collaborate on process reviews to strengthen compliance and effectiveness

Internal Audit aims to work collaboratively and transparently. When an audit or review is underway, the team will communicate clearly, seek input and provide helpful, constructive feedback.

Why IA matters

A strong Office of Internal Audit function helps AU protect resources and data, improve efficiency and accountability, mitigate risks, support informed decision-making at all levels at AU and investigate potential fraud.

The Office of Internal Audit asks all faculty, staff and students to take time to learn more about the services the office offers and how the team can assist all individuals and units in managing risks, improving process efficiency, evaluating compliance and achieving AU’s goals and objectives. To meet with a staff member, call the office at 706-721-2661 or email the staff.