A Q&A With OVPR Senior Post-Award Audit Manager Mike Garza
This month we speak with the Office of Sponsored Projects’ (OSP) post-award audit manager, Mike Garza, who joined OVPR earlier this year. Although he’s still relatively new at OSP, he’s no stranger to the University or the world of audits, having graduated from UT as an undergraduate and working in compliance in both state and federal government. Read on to learn more (including why he loves Austin and what sparked his passion for the outdoors).
What does your role entail as post-award audit manager for OSP?
As the post-award audit manager, I lead and coordinate audits of externally funded research projects, including federal Single Audits, Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) audits and other sponsor or state reviews. My role ensures compliance with Uniform Guidance, federal and state regulations and sponsor-specific requirements. I work closely with research administrators, principal investigators and internal units to resolve audit issues and communicate complex requirements in a clear, actionable way. In addition, I supervise a team that is responsible for institutional audits, subrecipient monitoring and effort reporting.
Ultimately, my focus is on safeguarding compliance, supporting researchers and driving process improvements that strengthen UT’s research operations.
How long have you been in this position? Have you always worked at UT?
I’ve been in my current position since March 2025. While I’m relatively new to working in higher education, I graduated from UT in 2010 (Hook ’em!) and have a strong audit background from working in both federal and state government.
What is your favorite thing about your job? Anything that surprises you?
My favorite thing about this job is the impact it has on UT’s research mission. I really enjoy knowing that my work helps ensure compliance and protect funding for groundbreaking projects. I also appreciate the collaborative nature of the role; working with faculty, research administrators and central offices keeps things dynamic and rewarding.
What still surprises me, even after years in federal and state government, is how complex and nuanced sponsored project regulations can be. There’s always something new to learn, which makes the work both challenging and exciting.
When did you move to Austin, and what brought you here? What do you like most about it?
I moved to Austin in 2006 to attend UT, and what I enjoy most are all the parks and trails that are easily accessible, as well as Austin’s proximity to surrounding areas I also appreciate.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to garden with my wife, hike and explore new trails and play poker. One day you will see me competing at the World Series of Poker!
And finally, most important: What is your favorite place in the world, and why?
My favorite place in the world is St. Mary’s Glacier in Colorado. It’s special to me because it was the first out-of-state hiking trip I took with my wife, and that experience completely changed how I view the outdoors. It turned me into an avid hiker and sparked a passion for exploring nature that I’ve carried with me ever since.