Reflecting on the Past and Preparing for the Future
It is with mixed emotions that I write this editorial after my resignation from the position of Comptroller General of the United States and head of the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO). First and foremost, from a U.S. perspective, I take comfort in knowing that during my tenure GAO was able to accomplish all but one of the major goals that I set out when I came on board in 1998. The final goal will be the focus of my efforts in my new position as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Peter G. Peterson Foundation. As a result of a major transformation effort within GAO, I was also able to leave the organization in great shape—it is well positioned for the future and, with the appointment of Gene Dodaro as Acting Comptroller General, it is in good hands. Second, from an international perspective, I was pleased to be a participant in the major transformation that INTOSAI also underwent during the past 10 years. In fact, my involvement with INTOSAI was one of my most enjoyable, rewarding, and memorable experiences as Comptroller General. More