Internal Audit

The University of Wisconsin System’s Office of Internal Audit provides independent, objective assurance and consulting services designed to add value and improve the system’s operation. Using a risk-based, systematic approach, the office evaluates and enhances the effectiveness of governance, risk management, and control processes across the Universities of Wisconsin.

As part of this systemwide framework, UW-Whitewater participates in internal audits throughout each fiscal year. These audits help strengthen and protect the organizational value of the university while supporting compliance with applicable regulations and UW System policies.

Reporting Misconduct, Illegal Activity, Fraud & Abuse

The University of Wisconsin System has selected EthicsPoint to provide you with a simple and anonymous way to report activities that may involve misconduct, abuse, fraud, illegal activity, violations of university policy, or if you fear retaliation for speaking out.

You may file a report online using EthicsPoint or by calling 855-827-4950.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I expect if my area is involved in an audit?

You will receive an email from the UW System’s Office of Internal Audit that includes an Engagement Letter and an Internal Control Questionnaire (ICQ). If you are not included in the initial communication, the UW-Whitewater audit liaison will follow up with this material and provide a due date for completing the ICQ. Typically, completing the ICQ involves collaboration with the appropriate member of the Chancellor’s Cabinet who oversees your area.

Throughout the audit, you can expect to participate in several meetings with the UW System’s audit team. These meetings provide opportunities to answer questions related to the ICQ, discuss observations, and review drafts of the final report before it is issued to executive leadership.

What does the audit process entail?

The audit process consists of eight phases, which occur in the following order:

Notification
Preliminary Planning and Research
Entrance Conference
Fieldwork
Draft Observations and Recommendations
Exit Conference
Final Audit Report
Follow-up on Recommendations

For a detailed description of each phase, visit the Audit Process webpage on the Universities of Wisconsin website.

Where can I see the UW System’s annual plan for internal audit?

The Audit Plan for the Fiscal Year 2026 is available on the Universities of Wisconsin website. You can also view the Fiscal Year 2025 Audit Plan, including the office’s goals and the criteria used to determine audited areas, on the Annual Plan page on the Office of Internal Audit website.

How does the Office of Internal Audit develop its annual plan?

The Office of Internal Audit seeks input from members of the Board of Regents, University of Wisconsin System Administration management, and institutional leadership through surveys and discussions to identify programs, policies, or practices that may warrant an audit.

In developing a plan, several factors are considered, including the following:

Recent administrative, organizational, or operational changes
Prior concerns identified in a specific area
Length of time since the area was last audited
Number of students or employees impacted
External reporting or compliance obligations
Potential for fraud or error
Level potential monetary or reputational loss if issues are not addressed

Who are the audit liaisons for UW-Whitewater?

The primary liaison for Internal Audits at UW-Whitewater is the Compliance and Risk Specialist, Justin Krause (krauseja24@uww.edu). While, the Compliance and Risk Manager, Thomas Lisowski (lisowskt@uww.edu), serves as the secondary liaison.