Press

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (May 31, 2013) – After nearly 45 years of public service, National Credit Union Administration Inspector General William DeSarno will retire today, NCUA Board Chairman Debbie Matz announced.

“Bill DeSarno built a long and distinguished career in public service, holding positions demanding the highest levels of public trust,” Matz said. “He has been consistently diligent and independent, always looking for ways to improve the performance of his office and the agency. He has handled complex issues with skill and integrity. His many insights and investigations have improved the operations of NCUA and ensured that credit unions remain a safe place to save and borrow.”

NCUA Board Member Michael Fryzel likewise praised DeSarno’s work.

“Bill DeSarno has had an outstanding career at NCUA and has earned the respect of the entire Washington, D.C., Inspector General community,” Fryzel said. “He has handled a tough job in a fair, consistent and independent manner. His efforts to modernize and make the Inspector General’s office more responsive and involved in improving the agency are well-recognized.”

DeSarno joined NCUA in 1997 and became the agency’s Inspector General in 2005. He served previously as assistant inspector general for audits and deputy inspector general. DeSarno distinguished himself by establishing the Office of the Inspector General’s first strategic plan, and he has been involved in all aspects of his office, including planning, budget, staffing and structure.

Prior to joining NCUA, DeSarno served seven years with the Treasury Department’s Inspector General’s office and 18 years with the General Accounting Office, accumulating more than 14 years of management experience and more 20 years of experience supervising auditors. His government career began in the U.S. Army, including service in Vietnam.

DeSarno received a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Scranton and a Master of Business Administration from George Washington University. He is a member of the Institute of Internal Auditors and is designated a “Certified Inspector General” by the Association of Inspectors General.

James Hagen, the agency’s current Deputy Inspector General for Audit, will assume the Inspector General’s position effective June 1.

The Office of Inspector General promotes the economy, efficiency and effectiveness of NCUA programs and operations and detects and deters fraud, waste and abuse, thereby supporting NCUA’s mission of monitoring and promoting safe and sound federally insured credit unions. The Inspector General conducts independent audits, investigations and other activities and keeps the NCUA Board and Congress fully and currently informed of their work.