The mission of the Office of Audit, Compliance & Privacy is to assist Auburn University, Auburn University at Montgomery, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, and the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station (the "University") in fulfilling its vision of being a preeminent comprehensive land-grant university. Our office provides services in three distinct yet related disciplines - audit, compliance, and privacy - in support of Auburn University's three-pronged mission of teaching, research, and service.
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Last month I mentioned that I was not sure what to write about in a column like this during a global pandemic. I have to admit I am still not sure, but I have decided that next month we will resume our prior year review and analysis. Today I wanted to share an excerpt of an email I sent my staff during week one of modified operations and then some thoughts that I've had over the past couple of weeks.
''Where do you want to be when all this is over?''I think this is a great question and am spending my day planning and thinking about my answer in several areas. I'd suggest you think about that question as well. Let's face it, we all have the opportunity to waste the ''down time'' we have on TV and junk food or we can use the opportunity to get out and walk, run, or do something. Many online gyms are offering free streams. There are podcasts, TED talks, and all kinds of things we can use to learn and grow during this season. If you need some suggestions, I am happy to give those to you. We are blessed that we have the technology to learn, grow, and cope during this pandemic that no other people in recorded history have had in crisis. This is a season of opportunity. You have to opportunity to come out of this season better as a person--healthier, wiser, and more equipped to seize the opportunities that will come. And they will come eventually. Your attitude during this time is your choice, and I'd suggest we all choose wisely. Yes, there are days that will be hard but keep thinking long term. This isn't forever, and we are blessed to live in a time where this crisis also brings great opportunity for us all. |
John C. Maxwell's teachings have been one of the biggest leadership influences in my career. I was listening to a talk he did recently where he said, ''inside every problem are hidden opportunities.'' He went on to point out how many breakthroughs come during difficult times. It hit me that we should be looking for those breakthroughs and opportunities as we work from a different perspective during this pandemic. As you think of new ideas or ways that things can be improved, make sure you let someone know. Don't be afraid to suggest new ideas to your institution's leadership. Who knows? Your idea may make your institution an even better place.
We again invite you to review the events occurring across higher education with a view toward proactive risk management. As always, we welcome your comments and suggestions.
Read this month's issue of Case In Point
The University uses the EthicsPoint anonymous Reporting System to enhance communication and empower individuals to promote safety, security, and ethical behavior. Use this anonymous, confidential system to report situations, events or actions by individuals or groups that you believe unethical or otherwise inappropriate. Frivolous or unfounded reports do not help foster a positive workplace. This hotline service does not replace our existing reporting methods for reporting fraud, waste, abuse or other potentially illegal activities. The University continues to encourage stakeholders to report concerns or suspected violations to their supervisor or other campus entities as appropriate.
If you are uncertain if a situation violates University policy, is illegal or constitutes harassment or discrimination, you may use EthicsPoint to obtain clarification. We would much rather have you ask questions than let potential problems go unchecked. However, EthicsPoint should not be used for immediate threats to life or property. If the situation presents an immediate threat to life or property call emergency -- 911
Last Updated: January 24, 2020
