9:01 a.m., Oct. 14, 2009----The University has a Compliance Hotline, designed to give individuals an additional avenue for reporting concerns they may have about financial, accounting and auditing issues at the University.

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The hotline, operated through a national company called EthicsPoint, allows individuals to report any suspected financial irregularity confidentially and anonymously.

“The use of such anonymous reporting systems is a 'best business practice' and has been recommended for all organizations by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants,” Edward J. Drozd, director of Internal Auditing at the University, said.

“We have a responsibility to our colleagues and the public to ensure that University funds are being used in accordance with legal and contractual requirements. This hotline will help identify issues that can improve our environment.”

University employees are encouraged to continue to report financial concerns through the standard chain of command or by contacting UD Human Resources or the Internal Auditing Department. For those who do not feel comfortable with the standard methods, the Financial Compliance Hotline is an additional option.

Reports, which can be made by anyone -- employees, students and vendors -- may be made 24 hours a day, seven days a week, via telephone or on the World Wide Web. The toll-free telephone number is 1-888-366-6033, and the Web site may be reached by going to [www.udel.edu/compliance]. Individuals may use any computer with Internet access; it does not have to be a University computer.

Reporting categories relate to internal control and financial matters including fraud, abuse of University resources, improper handling of gifts and improper accounting.

The EthicsPoint system uses state-of-the-art security features, including passwords, encryption and firewalls, to protect the anonymity and confidentiality of those making reports. Individuals may identify themselves if they choose to do so, or remain anonymous. Each person who files a report creates a private password and is assigned a unique identifier for secure communication and access to the system.

Notification of reports goes to UD's Internal Auditing Department, where experienced professional internal auditors will conduct necessary investigations to ascertain the facts in each case. Reports will be handled promptly and discreetly. No retaliatory action will be taken against anyone for reporting or inquiring in good faith about potential breaches of UD financial standards.