History

The Office of Internal Audit at Valdosta State University is a small department with a big mission. Our defined role as an independent, objective assurance and advisory entity that adds value and improves the organization places us at the forefront of supporting the long term goals and strategic plans of VSU. By partnering with University management and administration, we can evaluate the effectiveness of the management systems and controls they have implemented to mitigate risk. Simply put, our approach is to examine areas of high risk and focus on effective, efficient ways to help lessen that risk. (Risk is anything that keeps you from reaching your goals – including, but not limited to, financial, safety, human resources, legal, and public relations risks).

Internal Audit works in coordination with other audit groups that provide oversight of the University. The State of Georgia conducts an annual financial statement audit to determine whether the University’s Annual Financial Report is fairly presented in all material respects. In addition, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia maintains an audit team that provides services to institutions without an internal audit function.

Although their scopes differ, the focus of these external auditors aligns closely with the Office of Internal Audit at VSU: supporting management in fulfilling its governance, risk management, compliance, and internal control responsibilities. Collectively, these audit functions strengthen the University’s ability to create, protect, and sustain value by providing the Board and management with independent, risk‑based, and objective assurance, advice, insight, and foresight.

The Office of Internal Audit at VSU has three strategic priorities that are aligned with the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia Office of Internal Audit, Compliance, Ethics and Risk Management:

  1. Anticipate and help to prevent and mitigate high risk and significant issues;
  2. Foster enduring cultural change which results in consistent and quality management of VSU operations; and
  3. Build and develop a comprehensive team of highly qualified audit professionals.

Our department began operations in 1991 when former Vice Chancellor for Accounting Systems and Procedures Levy Youmans and former VSU President Bailey understood the importance of consistent evaluation of internal control processes, accuracy of management information reporting, compliance with laws, regulations and university policies, the effectiveness and efficiency of management systems for achieving university objectives considering business risks and the reliability and security of information systems and computer operations. 

The responsibilities of Internal Audit encompass the entire campus of Valdosta State University. We invite you to take a few minutes to complete the Self-Assessment Questionnaire. If we can assist you in the evaluation of the risks faced by your department, please feel free to contact us. Our office is located in West Hall Suite 1301.

Organizational Chart

The Director of Internal Audit at Valdosta State University has a direct reporting relationship to the President of the University and to the Vice Chancellor for Internal Audit, Compliance, Ethics and Risk Management/Chief Audit Officer.  VSU Internal Audits Organizational Chart.

Internal Audit Charter

An Internal Audit Charter is a formal written document that defines the purpose, authority, and responsibility of the Office of Internal Audit. The Charter establishes the Internal Audit's position within the organization; authorizes access to records, personnel, and physical properties relevant to the performance of engagement; and defines the scope of work.