Published on June 30, 2022
Updated on April 13, 2023
Dear Campus Community,
Today, the university is announcing the results of an audit of the College of Engineering regarding financial mismanagement.
In January, the university received a report from an individual concerned about a possible violation of university financial policies. Upon further investigation, we found direct evidence that more than $30,000 had been stolen from the university, either by purchasing items on university credit cards and using them for personal use, or by selling items previously purchased by the university. Additionally, further allegations of theft of more than $132,000 are being investigated by law enforcement personnel.
As a result of the investigation, three individuals were terminated and others have been addressed through personnel and human resources procedures. We have implemented new processes and structure changes to strengthen fiscal practices. Some of those changes include:
| • | Annual training that establishes and reinforces that the university’s Department of Surplus Property is the only authorized unit to sell university assets. |
| • | Audits for schools and colleges financial processes on a recurring basis. |
| • | Identifying specific levels and/or titles of individuals who will have periodic background and credit checks. |
We want to take this opportunity to remind everyone of the UM System Integrity and Accountability Hotline, 1-866-447-9821.
We are grateful to those who reported their concerns to us about this matter. The university makes every effort to ensure you feel comfortable approaching your supervisor or manager to raise questions and voice concerns about workplace and university issues, or if you believe a violation of a law, policy or standard has occurred. However, in situations where conventional channels are uncomfortable or otherwise inappropriate, or where you prefer to report anonymously, the Integrity and Accountability Hotline is available.
The University of Missouri is committed to institutional accountability, transparency and the protection of students, employees and visitors. As an organization, we strive to promote and foster a culture of integrity that supports and expects professional, honest and respectful interactions to make our university and the health system better places to live, learn and work.
It is important that we hold ourselves accountable and continue to be good stewards of the resources entrusted to us by the state of Missouri, our students and our donors. We also recently adopted a new Code of Conductfor MU. Please read it if you haven’t already and become familiar with our university’s policies and expectations.
Thank you for all you do for Mizzou.
Sincerely,
Michelle Piranio,
Chief Audit and Compliance Officer