Wake Forest names Jodi Geary as Chief Audit Officer

Wake Forest has named Jodi Geary as Chief Audit Officer, effective June 29, 2026. 

Geary brings more than two decades of experience in internal auditing, risk management, compliance and financial oversight in higher education and public accounting. In her role, she will lead the University’s Internal Audit Services function, overseeing the development and execution of a comprehensive risk-based audit strategy aligned with Wake Forest’s strategic priorities and institutional goals.

Geary joins Wake Forest from the Georgia Institute of Technology, where she served as Chief Audit Executive and led a department responsible for evaluating internal controls, operational effectiveness,  and compliance. Throughout her career, she has built strong cross-functional partnerships and helped organizations strengthen accountability, improve processes and navigate complex regulatory environments.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Jodi to Wake Forest as our new Chief Audit Officer,”  said Brian White, vice president and general counsel. “Her extensive audit expertise and higher education background make her uniquely qualified to lead the audit team at Wake Forest. Jodi’s insights will be invaluable to us, and we couldn’t be more excited for the energy and vision she brings to the role.”

As Chief Audit Officer, Geary will report jointly to the Vice President and General Counsel and the Audit and Compliance Committee of the Board of Trustees. She will work closely with University leadership and campus partners to strengthen internal controls, support compliance efforts and help identify and mitigate emerging institutional risks.

“I am truly honored to be joining Wake Forest University. From the moment I first connected with the school, I felt its warmth, its purpose, and its momentum,” said Geary. “This opportunity feels both energizing and deeply meaningful. I look forward to becoming part of the Wake Forest community and helping advance its mission with integrity and enthusiasm.”

Before joining Georgia Tech, Geary spent more than 15 years with KPMG LLP, where she specialized in higher education, nonprofit and government auditing and advisory services. She has extensive experience leading risk-based audits, implementing financial and operational controls and advising institutions on evolving regulatory and compliance requirements.

“I am thrilled to welcome Jodi to Wake Forest and am excited to begin collaborating with her.  Having a partner of her caliber and extensive background will bring a fresh, invaluable perspective to our enterprise risk strategies,” said Jacqueline A. Travisano, executive vice president and chief financial officer. 

Geary earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Tennessee Technological University and is a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM).