Member Spotlight: Jennifer Hung, CFE
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ACFE STAFF
Jennifer Hung, CFE, is a senior program analyst in heightened scrutiny/compliance at the Schools and Libraries (E-rate) Program in the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). USAC is an independent not-for-profit organization designated by the FCC to administer the Universal Service Fund (USF). The E-rate Program Hung specifically works for provides funding for the expansion of telecommunications and broadband access to eligible K-12 schools and libraries all over the country. Jennifer is a detailed-oriented problem solver and always strives to develop and maintain the program integrity and ensure the reduction of waste, fraud and abuse. She currently resides in Washington, D.C. and loves traveling. Her footsteps have touched every continent in the world. She also enjoys the arts and music programs D.C. has to offer. In addition to being a frequent volunteer at the concerts series from the Library of Congress, Hung also serves as a special event volunteer at the Smithsonian National Zoo and Cultural Tourism D.C.
How did you become passionate about fighting fraud?
I’ve held various roles for the past 16 years to ensure the integrity of the Federal Universal Service Fund Schools and Libraries (E-Rate) Program, which provides funding for the expansion of telecommunications, broadband access and infrastructure to schools and libraries across the country. It quickly became evident that the program is fraught with fraud. The E-rate program is in place to help educate school children. When I saw the level of fraudulent activity, it became my mission to help curb it as much as possible. Knowing that I do my part to assure program compliance and to ensure the reduction of waste, fraud and abuse when awarding E-rate funds has made me passionate about fighting fraud. I am proud to say that I am part of the E-rate program and all that it does for schools and libraries across the country.
What is one of the biggest lessons you have learned since becoming a CFE?
There are many different forms of fraud and unfortunately fraud is prevalent. I have learned that fraudsters are adaptable and good at what they do, so it takes an equal level of dedication and adaptability from fraud fighters to combat it. As the technology advances rapidly every day, it is imperative that fraud fighters continuously learn and help create new technologies to combat fraud.
What steps led you to your current position?
I started my career with Solix, Inc. Solix was contracted by USAC to process E-rate applications from the application submission and through the funding disbursement process. As noted, I developed a passion for combating fraudulent activity in the program and aligned my career path with that passion. During my time at Solix, I worked closely with my peers at USAC. When the opportunity arose to work for USAC, I applied for my current position and a relocation to Washington, D.C. I was born in Taiwan but went to schools in various cities in the U.S. and Switzerland. At the time I was living in New Jersey, so I welcomed the opportunity to relocate to Washington, D.C. During that time, I obtained my CFE and have furthered my knowledge of fraud and ways to combat it.
What is a memorable case or project that you have worked on?
There was a case in the E-rate program involving the technology director at a large school district. A service provider bribed the technology director with a multimillion-dollar yacht, as well as other gifts, in exchange for the award of service for a multimillion-dollar technology project at the school district. I was instrumental in the final outcome of the case. The case went to trial, and the fraudulent parties involved were eventually found guilty and sentenced to serve prison time.
How has earning the CFE credential impacted your career?
It has furthered my education and knowledge of fraud, which in turn has made me an improved fraud fighter. Additionally, obtaining the CFE certification affords itself a certain level of respect, which has helped to advance my career.
What activities or hobbies do you like to do outside of work?
Playing piano, attending cultural events in D.C., volunteering at the Library of Congress and the Smithsonian National Zoo, practicing yoga and traveling.
ACFE membership is open to individuals of all job functions, industries and levels of experience who are interested in the prevention, detection and deterrence of fraud. Our mission is to support you by providing access to the knowledge, resources and training you need to do your job now and at every stage of your career.