Internal Control Awareness

Dear Colleagues:

Since the onset of COVID, the members of the University at Albany community have shown a strong commitment to internal controls during a challenging time. I want to thank you for your efforts that contribute to the integrity and success of UAlbany operations as we move beyond the pandemic.

To reaffirm our commitment to the use of proper internal controls and internal control awareness at UAlbany and within our affiliated entities, I invite you to join me in taking a minute to refresh ourselves regarding available internal training, guidelines, and other materials that support a professional and ethical environment at UAlbany.

Internal controls are the operating practices, reporting relationships, policies and procedures adopted by UAlbany to help achieve our goals and objectives. Within an internal control system, the most important element is the overall control environment—the organization’s ethical values, integrity, competence, and operating philosophy.

Maintaining proper internal controls is an ongoing task with new challenges and threats emerging every day. This environment requires scheduled evaluations of departmental functions, regular reviews of online internal control and information security trainings, and conversations with internal control staff regarding new developments. I encourage all employees to review our online internal control training. In addition, please refamiliarize yourself with the UAlbany Principles of Professionalism, Ethics and Compliance. Additional training materials can be accessed by contacting the Office of Internal Control or Human Resources.

Finally, it is important to report any suspected breaches of internal control procedures, thefts or misuse of information or assets to the University Internal Control Hotline at 518-437-4738 or [email protected]. All calls and emails are treated in a strictly confidential manner.

Should you have questions about the University’s internal control program or wish to schedule an office-wide training session or private consultation, please contact Jonathan St. Clair ([email protected]) or Weisu Fudge ([email protected]) in the Office of Internal Control.

Thank you again for supporting internal controls as part of our collective commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment at the University at Albany. 

Sincerely,

Havidán Rodríguez
President