Sharon L. Dowen

As the director of the university's Internal Audit office, Sharon L. Dowen is essentially an institutional investigator. That she has performed in this role for so many years without generating anxiety and resentment speaks to her professionalism, her commitment to confidentiality and her focus not only on uncovering problems but on developing solutions. Sharon approaches any task with the university's interests at heart. She analyzes risk, discusses sensitive issues with management, respects the points of view of others, but stands firm when she must. She has developed a competent and highly credentialed staff and pays close attention to both their professional success and their personal challenges.