2023-005 – Inadequate Policies and Procedures (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College does not maintain written procedures as required by 2 CFR 200, Subparts D
and E of the Uniform Guidance.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(6), Financial Management, the financial management system of each
non-federal entity must provide the following: Written procedures to implement the requirements
of 200.305 Federal Payment. Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(7), Financial Management, the financial
management system of each nonfederal entity must provide the following: Written procedures for
determining the allowability of costs in accordance with Subpart E – Cost Principles of this part and
the terms and conditions of the Federal award.
Cause: The College does not have written procedures for the federal program financial
management requirements.
Effect: Not having written procedures for the aforementioned puts the College in direct violation of
Federal requirements over Federal programs under the Uniform Guidance, which could result in a
loss of programs, funds and/or repayment of federal monies already awarded back to the Federal
government.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College establish the required written procedures for
federal monies and have them available to all personnel who work with federal programs.
2023-006 – Payroll (Material Weakness in Internal Controls over Compliance/Material
Noncompliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College’s supporting documentation did not match to the amount of employee’s pay
charged to grant.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR section 200.430(i)(1) – Compensation – personal services, Charges to Federal awards for
salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed.
Cause: The College does not have sufficient controls in place to ensure the accuracy of the amounts
paid to employees nor include appropriate approvals documented to be allowable to be charged to
the federal grant.
Effect: Lack of approval and inaccurate documentation for costs charged to grants puts the College
at risk of charging unallowable costs, which in turn could result in required repayment to grantor
agencies.
Questioned Costs: Known questioned costs of $6,812 and likely questioned costs of $83,407.
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College develop and implement adequate policies
and procedures to ensure charging of expenses for allowability are based off approved amounts.
2023-007 – Procurement, Small Purchases (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance, Questioned Costs Greater than $25k)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not follow small purchase
procedures and obtain quotes to ensure the vendor with the lowest price was used for one sample.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
2 CFR 200.320(a) sets the micro-purchase threshold at $10,000 and requires purchases over the
micro-purchase threshold to use small purchase procedures, whereby price or rate quotations must
be obtained.
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not obtain three quotes prior to using vendor for a purchase.
Effect: The College may unintentionally use a higher-cost vendor when failing to obtain price or rate
quotations for items over the micro-purchase threshold.
Questioned Costs: Known and likely questioned costs of $32,607
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-008 – Procurement, Above Simple Acquisition (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not get Board approval per
policy on a purchase over the threshold.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not get Board approval for purchases above simple acquisition.
Effect: The College may unintentionally charge expenses to the program that do not qualify and in
turn lead to questioned costs and/or repayment of funds to the grantor agency.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-009 – Equipment and Real Property Management (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College had asset additions in the fiscal year not included in the federal award
listings maintained for equipment and were unaware if the items were included in listings
maintained by another University the College was a fund in, in prior years.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.313(d)(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the
property, a serial number or other identification number, the source of funding for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and cost of the property, percentage of
Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award under which the property was
acquired, the location, use and condition of the property, and any ultimate disposition data
including the date of disposal and sale price of the property.
Cause: The College does not have policies and procedures to ensure that equipment purchased with
federal funds is maintained and tracked.
Effect: The College could dispose of or lose federally funded equipment without following federal
guidelines.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College enhance the design of its control activities
and create a tool to assist in tracking and maintaining equipment purchased with federal funds.
Additionally, the employees responsible for the inventory should be trained to ensure
understanding of the Uniform Guidance requirements relevant to equipment and real property
management.
2023-005 – Inadequate Policies and Procedures (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College does not maintain written procedures as required by 2 CFR 200, Subparts D
and E of the Uniform Guidance.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(6), Financial Management, the financial management system of each
non-federal entity must provide the following: Written procedures to implement the requirements
of 200.305 Federal Payment. Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(7), Financial Management, the financial
management system of each nonfederal entity must provide the following: Written procedures for
determining the allowability of costs in accordance with Subpart E – Cost Principles of this part and
the terms and conditions of the Federal award.
Cause: The College does not have written procedures for the federal program financial
management requirements.
Effect: Not having written procedures for the aforementioned puts the College in direct violation of
Federal requirements over Federal programs under the Uniform Guidance, which could result in a
loss of programs, funds and/or repayment of federal monies already awarded back to the Federal
government.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College establish the required written procedures for
federal monies and have them available to all personnel who work with federal programs.
2023-006 – Payroll (Material Weakness in Internal Controls over Compliance/Material
Noncompliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College’s supporting documentation did not match to the amount of employee’s pay
charged to grant.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR section 200.430(i)(1) – Compensation – personal services, Charges to Federal awards for
salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed.
Cause: The College does not have sufficient controls in place to ensure the accuracy of the amounts
paid to employees nor include appropriate approvals documented to be allowable to be charged to
the federal grant.
Effect: Lack of approval and inaccurate documentation for costs charged to grants puts the College
at risk of charging unallowable costs, which in turn could result in required repayment to grantor
agencies.
Questioned Costs: Known questioned costs of $6,812 and likely questioned costs of $83,407.
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College develop and implement adequate policies
and procedures to ensure charging of expenses for allowability are based off approved amounts.
2023-007 – Procurement, Small Purchases (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance, Questioned Costs Greater than $25k)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not follow small purchase
procedures and obtain quotes to ensure the vendor with the lowest price was used for one sample.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
2 CFR 200.320(a) sets the micro-purchase threshold at $10,000 and requires purchases over the
micro-purchase threshold to use small purchase procedures, whereby price or rate quotations must
be obtained.
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not obtain three quotes prior to using vendor for a purchase.
Effect: The College may unintentionally use a higher-cost vendor when failing to obtain price or rate
quotations for items over the micro-purchase threshold.
Questioned Costs: Known and likely questioned costs of $32,607
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-008 – Procurement, Above Simple Acquisition (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not get Board approval per
policy on a purchase over the threshold.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not get Board approval for purchases above simple acquisition.
Effect: The College may unintentionally charge expenses to the program that do not qualify and in
turn lead to questioned costs and/or repayment of funds to the grantor agency.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-009 – Equipment and Real Property Management (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College had asset additions in the fiscal year not included in the federal award
listings maintained for equipment and were unaware if the items were included in listings
maintained by another University the College was a fund in, in prior years.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.313(d)(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the
property, a serial number or other identification number, the source of funding for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and cost of the property, percentage of
Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award under which the property was
acquired, the location, use and condition of the property, and any ultimate disposition data
including the date of disposal and sale price of the property.
Cause: The College does not have policies and procedures to ensure that equipment purchased with
federal funds is maintained and tracked.
Effect: The College could dispose of or lose federally funded equipment without following federal
guidelines.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College enhance the design of its control activities
and create a tool to assist in tracking and maintaining equipment purchased with federal funds.
Additionally, the employees responsible for the inventory should be trained to ensure
understanding of the Uniform Guidance requirements relevant to equipment and real property
management.
2023-005 – Inadequate Policies and Procedures (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College does not maintain written procedures as required by 2 CFR 200, Subparts D
and E of the Uniform Guidance.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(6), Financial Management, the financial management system of each
non-federal entity must provide the following: Written procedures to implement the requirements
of 200.305 Federal Payment. Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(7), Financial Management, the financial
management system of each nonfederal entity must provide the following: Written procedures for
determining the allowability of costs in accordance with Subpart E – Cost Principles of this part and
the terms and conditions of the Federal award.
Cause: The College does not have written procedures for the federal program financial
management requirements.
Effect: Not having written procedures for the aforementioned puts the College in direct violation of
Federal requirements over Federal programs under the Uniform Guidance, which could result in a
loss of programs, funds and/or repayment of federal monies already awarded back to the Federal
government.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College establish the required written procedures for
federal monies and have them available to all personnel who work with federal programs.
2023-006 – Payroll (Material Weakness in Internal Controls over Compliance/Material
Noncompliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College’s supporting documentation did not match to the amount of employee’s pay
charged to grant.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR section 200.430(i)(1) – Compensation – personal services, Charges to Federal awards for
salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed.
Cause: The College does not have sufficient controls in place to ensure the accuracy of the amounts
paid to employees nor include appropriate approvals documented to be allowable to be charged to
the federal grant.
Effect: Lack of approval and inaccurate documentation for costs charged to grants puts the College
at risk of charging unallowable costs, which in turn could result in required repayment to grantor
agencies.
Questioned Costs: Known questioned costs of $6,812 and likely questioned costs of $83,407.
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College develop and implement adequate policies
and procedures to ensure charging of expenses for allowability are based off approved amounts.
2023-007 – Procurement, Small Purchases (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance, Questioned Costs Greater than $25k)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not follow small purchase
procedures and obtain quotes to ensure the vendor with the lowest price was used for one sample.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
2 CFR 200.320(a) sets the micro-purchase threshold at $10,000 and requires purchases over the
micro-purchase threshold to use small purchase procedures, whereby price or rate quotations must
be obtained.
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not obtain three quotes prior to using vendor for a purchase.
Effect: The College may unintentionally use a higher-cost vendor when failing to obtain price or rate
quotations for items over the micro-purchase threshold.
Questioned Costs: Known and likely questioned costs of $32,607
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-008 – Procurement, Above Simple Acquisition (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not get Board approval per
policy on a purchase over the threshold.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not get Board approval for purchases above simple acquisition.
Effect: The College may unintentionally charge expenses to the program that do not qualify and in
turn lead to questioned costs and/or repayment of funds to the grantor agency.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-009 – Equipment and Real Property Management (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College had asset additions in the fiscal year not included in the federal award
listings maintained for equipment and were unaware if the items were included in listings
maintained by another University the College was a fund in, in prior years.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.313(d)(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the
property, a serial number or other identification number, the source of funding for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and cost of the property, percentage of
Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award under which the property was
acquired, the location, use and condition of the property, and any ultimate disposition data
including the date of disposal and sale price of the property.
Cause: The College does not have policies and procedures to ensure that equipment purchased with
federal funds is maintained and tracked.
Effect: The College could dispose of or lose federally funded equipment without following federal
guidelines.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College enhance the design of its control activities
and create a tool to assist in tracking and maintaining equipment purchased with federal funds.
Additionally, the employees responsible for the inventory should be trained to ensure
understanding of the Uniform Guidance requirements relevant to equipment and real property
management.
2023-005 – Inadequate Policies and Procedures (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College does not maintain written procedures as required by 2 CFR 200, Subparts D
and E of the Uniform Guidance.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(6), Financial Management, the financial management system of each
non-federal entity must provide the following: Written procedures to implement the requirements
of 200.305 Federal Payment. Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(7), Financial Management, the financial
management system of each nonfederal entity must provide the following: Written procedures for
determining the allowability of costs in accordance with Subpart E – Cost Principles of this part and
the terms and conditions of the Federal award.
Cause: The College does not have written procedures for the federal program financial
management requirements.
Effect: Not having written procedures for the aforementioned puts the College in direct violation of
Federal requirements over Federal programs under the Uniform Guidance, which could result in a
loss of programs, funds and/or repayment of federal monies already awarded back to the Federal
government.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College establish the required written procedures for
federal monies and have them available to all personnel who work with federal programs.
2023-006 – Payroll (Material Weakness in Internal Controls over Compliance/Material
Noncompliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College’s supporting documentation did not match to the amount of employee’s pay
charged to grant.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR section 200.430(i)(1) – Compensation – personal services, Charges to Federal awards for
salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed.
Cause: The College does not have sufficient controls in place to ensure the accuracy of the amounts
paid to employees nor include appropriate approvals documented to be allowable to be charged to
the federal grant.
Effect: Lack of approval and inaccurate documentation for costs charged to grants puts the College
at risk of charging unallowable costs, which in turn could result in required repayment to grantor
agencies.
Questioned Costs: Known questioned costs of $6,812 and likely questioned costs of $83,407.
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College develop and implement adequate policies
and procedures to ensure charging of expenses for allowability are based off approved amounts.
2023-007 – Procurement, Small Purchases (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance, Questioned Costs Greater than $25k)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not follow small purchase
procedures and obtain quotes to ensure the vendor with the lowest price was used for one sample.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
2 CFR 200.320(a) sets the micro-purchase threshold at $10,000 and requires purchases over the
micro-purchase threshold to use small purchase procedures, whereby price or rate quotations must
be obtained.
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not obtain three quotes prior to using vendor for a purchase.
Effect: The College may unintentionally use a higher-cost vendor when failing to obtain price or rate
quotations for items over the micro-purchase threshold.
Questioned Costs: Known and likely questioned costs of $32,607
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-008 – Procurement, Above Simple Acquisition (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not get Board approval per
policy on a purchase over the threshold.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not get Board approval for purchases above simple acquisition.
Effect: The College may unintentionally charge expenses to the program that do not qualify and in
turn lead to questioned costs and/or repayment of funds to the grantor agency.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-009 – Equipment and Real Property Management (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College had asset additions in the fiscal year not included in the federal award
listings maintained for equipment and were unaware if the items were included in listings
maintained by another University the College was a fund in, in prior years.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.313(d)(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the
property, a serial number or other identification number, the source of funding for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and cost of the property, percentage of
Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award under which the property was
acquired, the location, use and condition of the property, and any ultimate disposition data
including the date of disposal and sale price of the property.
Cause: The College does not have policies and procedures to ensure that equipment purchased with
federal funds is maintained and tracked.
Effect: The College could dispose of or lose federally funded equipment without following federal
guidelines.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College enhance the design of its control activities
and create a tool to assist in tracking and maintaining equipment purchased with federal funds.
Additionally, the employees responsible for the inventory should be trained to ensure
understanding of the Uniform Guidance requirements relevant to equipment and real property
management.
2023-005 – Inadequate Policies and Procedures (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College does not maintain written procedures as required by 2 CFR 200, Subparts D
and E of the Uniform Guidance.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(6), Financial Management, the financial management system of each
non-federal entity must provide the following: Written procedures to implement the requirements
of 200.305 Federal Payment. Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(7), Financial Management, the financial
management system of each nonfederal entity must provide the following: Written procedures for
determining the allowability of costs in accordance with Subpart E – Cost Principles of this part and
the terms and conditions of the Federal award.
Cause: The College does not have written procedures for the federal program financial
management requirements.
Effect: Not having written procedures for the aforementioned puts the College in direct violation of
Federal requirements over Federal programs under the Uniform Guidance, which could result in a
loss of programs, funds and/or repayment of federal monies already awarded back to the Federal
government.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College establish the required written procedures for
federal monies and have them available to all personnel who work with federal programs.
2023-006 – Payroll (Material Weakness in Internal Controls over Compliance/Material
Noncompliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College’s supporting documentation did not match to the amount of employee’s pay
charged to grant.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR section 200.430(i)(1) – Compensation – personal services, Charges to Federal awards for
salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed.
Cause: The College does not have sufficient controls in place to ensure the accuracy of the amounts
paid to employees nor include appropriate approvals documented to be allowable to be charged to
the federal grant.
Effect: Lack of approval and inaccurate documentation for costs charged to grants puts the College
at risk of charging unallowable costs, which in turn could result in required repayment to grantor
agencies.
Questioned Costs: Known questioned costs of $6,812 and likely questioned costs of $83,407.
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College develop and implement adequate policies
and procedures to ensure charging of expenses for allowability are based off approved amounts.
2023-007 – Procurement, Small Purchases (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance, Questioned Costs Greater than $25k)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not follow small purchase
procedures and obtain quotes to ensure the vendor with the lowest price was used for one sample.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
2 CFR 200.320(a) sets the micro-purchase threshold at $10,000 and requires purchases over the
micro-purchase threshold to use small purchase procedures, whereby price or rate quotations must
be obtained.
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not obtain three quotes prior to using vendor for a purchase.
Effect: The College may unintentionally use a higher-cost vendor when failing to obtain price or rate
quotations for items over the micro-purchase threshold.
Questioned Costs: Known and likely questioned costs of $32,607
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-008 – Procurement, Above Simple Acquisition (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not get Board approval per
policy on a purchase over the threshold.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not get Board approval for purchases above simple acquisition.
Effect: The College may unintentionally charge expenses to the program that do not qualify and in
turn lead to questioned costs and/or repayment of funds to the grantor agency.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-009 – Equipment and Real Property Management (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College had asset additions in the fiscal year not included in the federal award
listings maintained for equipment and were unaware if the items were included in listings
maintained by another University the College was a fund in, in prior years.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.313(d)(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the
property, a serial number or other identification number, the source of funding for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and cost of the property, percentage of
Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award under which the property was
acquired, the location, use and condition of the property, and any ultimate disposition data
including the date of disposal and sale price of the property.
Cause: The College does not have policies and procedures to ensure that equipment purchased with
federal funds is maintained and tracked.
Effect: The College could dispose of or lose federally funded equipment without following federal
guidelines.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College enhance the design of its control activities
and create a tool to assist in tracking and maintaining equipment purchased with federal funds.
Additionally, the employees responsible for the inventory should be trained to ensure
understanding of the Uniform Guidance requirements relevant to equipment and real property
management.
2023-005 – Inadequate Policies and Procedures (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College does not maintain written procedures as required by 2 CFR 200, Subparts D
and E of the Uniform Guidance.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(6), Financial Management, the financial management system of each
non-federal entity must provide the following: Written procedures to implement the requirements
of 200.305 Federal Payment. Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(7), Financial Management, the financial
management system of each nonfederal entity must provide the following: Written procedures for
determining the allowability of costs in accordance with Subpart E – Cost Principles of this part and
the terms and conditions of the Federal award.
Cause: The College does not have written procedures for the federal program financial
management requirements.
Effect: Not having written procedures for the aforementioned puts the College in direct violation of
Federal requirements over Federal programs under the Uniform Guidance, which could result in a
loss of programs, funds and/or repayment of federal monies already awarded back to the Federal
government.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College establish the required written procedures for
federal monies and have them available to all personnel who work with federal programs.
2023-006 – Payroll (Material Weakness in Internal Controls over Compliance/Material
Noncompliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College’s supporting documentation did not match to the amount of employee’s pay
charged to grant.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR section 200.430(i)(1) – Compensation – personal services, Charges to Federal awards for
salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed.
Cause: The College does not have sufficient controls in place to ensure the accuracy of the amounts
paid to employees nor include appropriate approvals documented to be allowable to be charged to
the federal grant.
Effect: Lack of approval and inaccurate documentation for costs charged to grants puts the College
at risk of charging unallowable costs, which in turn could result in required repayment to grantor
agencies.
Questioned Costs: Known questioned costs of $6,812 and likely questioned costs of $83,407.
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College develop and implement adequate policies
and procedures to ensure charging of expenses for allowability are based off approved amounts.
2023-007 – Procurement, Small Purchases (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance, Questioned Costs Greater than $25k)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not follow small purchase
procedures and obtain quotes to ensure the vendor with the lowest price was used for one sample.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
2 CFR 200.320(a) sets the micro-purchase threshold at $10,000 and requires purchases over the
micro-purchase threshold to use small purchase procedures, whereby price or rate quotations must
be obtained.
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not obtain three quotes prior to using vendor for a purchase.
Effect: The College may unintentionally use a higher-cost vendor when failing to obtain price or rate
quotations for items over the micro-purchase threshold.
Questioned Costs: Known and likely questioned costs of $32,607
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-008 – Procurement, Above Simple Acquisition (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not get Board approval per
policy on a purchase over the threshold.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not get Board approval for purchases above simple acquisition.
Effect: The College may unintentionally charge expenses to the program that do not qualify and in
turn lead to questioned costs and/or repayment of funds to the grantor agency.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-009 – Equipment and Real Property Management (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College had asset additions in the fiscal year not included in the federal award
listings maintained for equipment and were unaware if the items were included in listings
maintained by another University the College was a fund in, in prior years.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.313(d)(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the
property, a serial number or other identification number, the source of funding for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and cost of the property, percentage of
Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award under which the property was
acquired, the location, use and condition of the property, and any ultimate disposition data
including the date of disposal and sale price of the property.
Cause: The College does not have policies and procedures to ensure that equipment purchased with
federal funds is maintained and tracked.
Effect: The College could dispose of or lose federally funded equipment without following federal
guidelines.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College enhance the design of its control activities
and create a tool to assist in tracking and maintaining equipment purchased with federal funds.
Additionally, the employees responsible for the inventory should be trained to ensure
understanding of the Uniform Guidance requirements relevant to equipment and real property
management.
2023-005 – Inadequate Policies and Procedures (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College does not maintain written procedures as required by 2 CFR 200, Subparts D
and E of the Uniform Guidance.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(6), Financial Management, the financial management system of each
non-federal entity must provide the following: Written procedures to implement the requirements
of 200.305 Federal Payment. Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(7), Financial Management, the financial
management system of each nonfederal entity must provide the following: Written procedures for
determining the allowability of costs in accordance with Subpart E – Cost Principles of this part and
the terms and conditions of the Federal award.
Cause: The College does not have written procedures for the federal program financial
management requirements.
Effect: Not having written procedures for the aforementioned puts the College in direct violation of
Federal requirements over Federal programs under the Uniform Guidance, which could result in a
loss of programs, funds and/or repayment of federal monies already awarded back to the Federal
government.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College establish the required written procedures for
federal monies and have them available to all personnel who work with federal programs.
2023-006 – Payroll (Material Weakness in Internal Controls over Compliance/Material
Noncompliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College’s supporting documentation did not match to the amount of employee’s pay
charged to grant.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR section 200.430(i)(1) – Compensation – personal services, Charges to Federal awards for
salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed.
Cause: The College does not have sufficient controls in place to ensure the accuracy of the amounts
paid to employees nor include appropriate approvals documented to be allowable to be charged to
the federal grant.
Effect: Lack of approval and inaccurate documentation for costs charged to grants puts the College
at risk of charging unallowable costs, which in turn could result in required repayment to grantor
agencies.
Questioned Costs: Known questioned costs of $6,812 and likely questioned costs of $83,407.
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College develop and implement adequate policies
and procedures to ensure charging of expenses for allowability are based off approved amounts.
2023-007 – Procurement, Small Purchases (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance, Questioned Costs Greater than $25k)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not follow small purchase
procedures and obtain quotes to ensure the vendor with the lowest price was used for one sample.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
2 CFR 200.320(a) sets the micro-purchase threshold at $10,000 and requires purchases over the
micro-purchase threshold to use small purchase procedures, whereby price or rate quotations must
be obtained.
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not obtain three quotes prior to using vendor for a purchase.
Effect: The College may unintentionally use a higher-cost vendor when failing to obtain price or rate
quotations for items over the micro-purchase threshold.
Questioned Costs: Known and likely questioned costs of $32,607
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-008 – Procurement, Above Simple Acquisition (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not get Board approval per
policy on a purchase over the threshold.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not get Board approval for purchases above simple acquisition.
Effect: The College may unintentionally charge expenses to the program that do not qualify and in
turn lead to questioned costs and/or repayment of funds to the grantor agency.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-009 – Equipment and Real Property Management (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College had asset additions in the fiscal year not included in the federal award
listings maintained for equipment and were unaware if the items were included in listings
maintained by another University the College was a fund in, in prior years.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.313(d)(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the
property, a serial number or other identification number, the source of funding for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and cost of the property, percentage of
Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award under which the property was
acquired, the location, use and condition of the property, and any ultimate disposition data
including the date of disposal and sale price of the property.
Cause: The College does not have policies and procedures to ensure that equipment purchased with
federal funds is maintained and tracked.
Effect: The College could dispose of or lose federally funded equipment without following federal
guidelines.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College enhance the design of its control activities
and create a tool to assist in tracking and maintaining equipment purchased with federal funds.
Additionally, the employees responsible for the inventory should be trained to ensure
understanding of the Uniform Guidance requirements relevant to equipment and real property
management.
2023-005 – Inadequate Policies and Procedures (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College does not maintain written procedures as required by 2 CFR 200, Subparts D
and E of the Uniform Guidance.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(6), Financial Management, the financial management system of each
non-federal entity must provide the following: Written procedures to implement the requirements
of 200.305 Federal Payment. Per 2 CFR 200.302(b)(7), Financial Management, the financial
management system of each nonfederal entity must provide the following: Written procedures for
determining the allowability of costs in accordance with Subpart E – Cost Principles of this part and
the terms and conditions of the Federal award.
Cause: The College does not have written procedures for the federal program financial
management requirements.
Effect: Not having written procedures for the aforementioned puts the College in direct violation of
Federal requirements over Federal programs under the Uniform Guidance, which could result in a
loss of programs, funds and/or repayment of federal monies already awarded back to the Federal
government.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College establish the required written procedures for
federal monies and have them available to all personnel who work with federal programs.
2023-006 – Payroll (Material Weakness in Internal Controls over Compliance/Material
Noncompliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210287, P031S210288, P031C200002, P031C210215
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College’s supporting documentation did not match to the amount of employee’s pay
charged to grant.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR section 200.430(i)(1) – Compensation – personal services, Charges to Federal awards for
salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed.
Cause: The College does not have sufficient controls in place to ensure the accuracy of the amounts
paid to employees nor include appropriate approvals documented to be allowable to be charged to
the federal grant.
Effect: Lack of approval and inaccurate documentation for costs charged to grants puts the College
at risk of charging unallowable costs, which in turn could result in required repayment to grantor
agencies.
Questioned Costs: Known questioned costs of $6,812 and likely questioned costs of $83,407.
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College develop and implement adequate policies
and procedures to ensure charging of expenses for allowability are based off approved amounts.
2023-007 – Procurement, Small Purchases (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls over
Compliance, Questioned Costs Greater than $25k)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not follow small purchase
procedures and obtain quotes to ensure the vendor with the lowest price was used for one sample.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
2 CFR 200.320(a) sets the micro-purchase threshold at $10,000 and requires purchases over the
micro-purchase threshold to use small purchase procedures, whereby price or rate quotations must
be obtained.
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not obtain three quotes prior to using vendor for a purchase.
Effect: The College may unintentionally use a higher-cost vendor when failing to obtain price or rate
quotations for items over the micro-purchase threshold.
Questioned Costs: Known and likely questioned costs of $32,607
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-008 – Procurement, Above Simple Acquisition (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: During our review of procurement testing, the College did not get Board approval per
policy on a purchase over the threshold.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.318(i), non-federal entities must retain documentation sufficient to detail the history
of procurement decisions.
Cause: The College did not get Board approval for purchases above simple acquisition.
Effect: The College may unintentionally charge expenses to the program that do not qualify and in
turn lead to questioned costs and/or repayment of funds to the grantor agency.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College strengthen controls to ensure purchasing
policies and procedures are being followed and train staff in the purchasing department to comply
with all relevant federal procurement requirements.
2023-009 – Equipment and Real Property Management (Significant Deficiency in Internal Controls
over Compliance)
Federal Program Information
Federal Award Title and ALN: Research & Development Cluster, 84.031
Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Education
Federal Award ID Number: P031S210288, P031C200002
Federal Award Year: 2023
Condition: The College had asset additions in the fiscal year not included in the federal award
listings maintained for equipment and were unaware if the items were included in listings
maintained by another University the College was a fund in, in prior years.
Criteria: Per 2 CFR 200.303(a), the non-federal entity must establish and maintain effective internal
control over the Federal award that provides reasonable assurance that the non-Federal entity is
managing the Federal award in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and
conditions of the Federal award. These internal controls should be in compliance with guidance in
“Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government” issued by the Comptroller General of
the United States or the “Internal Control Integrated Framework”, issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
Per 2 CFR 200.313(d)(1) Property records must be maintained that include a description of the
property, a serial number or other identification number, the source of funding for the property
(including the FAIN), who holds title, the acquisition date, and cost of the property, percentage of
Federal participation in the project costs for the Federal award under which the property was
acquired, the location, use and condition of the property, and any ultimate disposition data
including the date of disposal and sale price of the property.
Cause: The College does not have policies and procedures to ensure that equipment purchased with
federal funds is maintained and tracked.
Effect: The College could dispose of or lose federally funded equipment without following federal
guidelines.
Questioned Costs: None
Auditor recommendation: We recommend the College enhance the design of its control activities
and create a tool to assist in tracking and maintaining equipment purchased with federal funds.
Additionally, the employees responsible for the inventory should be trained to ensure
understanding of the Uniform Guidance requirements relevant to equipment and real property
management.