'I want to know where it went!' Social media users take to the comments over OSU audit

Oklahoma State University (OSU) is under scrutiny following an audit that revealed significant financial mismanagement.

The audit concluded that a total of $41 million in state funds received between July 1, 2022, and January 15, 2025, were not properly restricted. The audit findings have sparked a range of reactions on social media, with some expressing disbelief, others sharing frustration and some speculating about the motivations behind the audit’s findings.

TIMELINE: What led to the OSU audit?

Education

While some weren’t shocked by the revelations of financial mismanagement, others were quick to point out that the audit should be done to more schools: Roy Conner wrote:

"If every level state supported education was audited imagine the possibilities. Start at the school districts and thin them down and pass that to teachers wages. Taxing citizens more putting up votes we nay on and then blame older Oklahomans or those without kids in school gets old."

By The Numbers: Breakdown of OSU Audit

Frustration Over Financial Accountability

Frustration over the impact of the audit’s findings was also evident. Kyleigh Burgess expressed disbelief over the lack of accountability for overcharges on business services.

"Yeah, and they can’t pay me back from overcharge on business services 🙁."

What is The Innovation Foundation, and why are they at the center of an OSU audit?

Concerns About OSU Spending

Some users took issue with how taxpayer money is spent at OSU, particularly regarding the transit system.

"How about looking into OSU transit and how they can justify using tax dollars and federal grants on running a bus that benefits mostly the students and not the general public. Our town doesn’t have the public ridership or population to support a large transit bus service, it's a waste of money and tears up our roads," Cosmo M. wrote.

Speculation on President Shrum’s Resignation

As details of the audit unfolded, speculation grew about the resignation of OSU President Kayse Shrum.

"And there’s probably why Shrum resigned. Knew something would come out," Bret Barber said.

Related: Dr. Kayse Shrum resigns as OSU President, sparking mixed reactions across campus

Others felt that Shrum's resignation may have been linked to a broader effort to undermine her leadership.

"More lies from the good ole boys who can’t handle that a female did so much for a university, remains highly respected, and will continue to be acknowledged and awarded for all the good she’s done with her time at OSU. I honestly don’t know how they sleep at night knowing that their sole mission to destroy someone (which has completely backfired) brings them joy," said Carrie Sowell.

Related: OSU Board of Regents names Dr. James Hess as interim president after Shrum’s resignation

Calls for Action

In response to the audit’s findings, some users voiced their desire for action, calling for consequences.

"Glad the audit brought this out !!! Firm hands need to set things in action to stop this now!" Claire Burkus said.

Housing Concerns at OSU

Meanwhile, other discussions on social media turned to other issues facing OSU. Heather Graham questioned the housing situation at the university

"Board of Regents have made some bad decisions! How about housing for next year? It’s a lottery. Freshman first, others get what they get. My daughter and her four roommates did not get housing for next year. What would the Board of Regents suggest they do? There is not enough off-campus housing for all the students that need it. Bad planning to take down all the old housing at the same time. OSU housing has asbestos."