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GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS OFFICE OF THE V. I. INSPECTOR GENERAL 2315 Kronprindsens Gade #75, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, V. I. 00802-6468 100 Lagoon Complex, Suite 8, Frederiksted, St. Croix, V. I. 00840-3912 Tel: (340) 774-3388 STT DELIA THOMAS (340) 778-9012 STX V.I. INSPECTOR GENERAL Fax: (340) 774-6431 STT (340) 772-3677 STX March 17, 2026 The Honorable Avery L. Lewis Legislature of the Virgin Islands Post Office Box 1690 Capitol Building Charlotte Amalie, VI 00801 STEVEN VAN BEVERHOUDT Good day, Honorable Senator Avery L. Lewis and all honorable senators of the 36th Legislature’s Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs, and Consumer Protection. My name is Marsha Dubois, Supervisory Auditor, Office of the Virgin Islands Inspector General. On behalf of the employees of the Inspector General, I am here today to offer our full support for the passage of Bill No. 36-0009, a resolution honoring and commending Mr. Steven van Beverhoudt for his years of dedicated service and invaluable contributions to the people of the Virgin Islands. Many of us who joined the Office of the Virgin Islands Inspector General had limited knowledge of auditing beyond the required bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. Personally, although I earned my degree in Accounting from the University of the Virgin Islands and completed coursework in auditing and governmental accounting, my practical understanding of auditing was limited. However, I believe many of my colleagues would agree that the opportunity to work in an office known for holding government officials accountable for fraud, waste, and abuse was both exciting and potentially challenging—and, for many of us, a dream job. Under the leadership of Mr. van Beverhoudt, whom we all knew simply as “Steve,” alongside his Deputy, our current Inspector General, we quickly learned that the true value of this work extends beyond the title of the office. We understood that the value of the work lies in the strong ethical principles and unwavering integrity that have become synonymous with the leadership Steve cultivated. I can confidently speak on behalf of most, if not all, of my colleagues in saying that, while we began with limited knowledge, we gained a broad range of skills and a deep understanding of what it means to operate in a truly professional environment, one that is free from political influence and external pressures. 2 As auditors, we were consistently provided with the tools necessary to perform our duties effectively, whether through internal support, professional guidance, or on-the-job training. Steve’s open-door policy fostered an environment where we felt comfortable presenting and, when necessary, defending our findings. We were encouraged to ask questions, seek clarity, and request guidance at any stage of our work. Most importantly, we were empowered to follow the evidence wherever it led, regardless of the political affiliation or personal association. Because of this, we approach our work with confidence and integrity. We knew that the only expectations were that our findings were clear, well-supported, and materially significant. This level of integrity is rare, particularly within a small and close-knit community, yet it defined his tenure as Inspector General. The work of the Office of the Inspector General is important and critical, and it requires strong, principled leadership to make the work truly meaningful. Steve’s mentorship instilled in us the understanding that our work is not for personal recognition but for the taxpayers who rely on us to serve as their eyes and ears and, most importantly, to help agencies improve and strengthen their internal controls. The people of the Virgin Islands place their trust in us to report fraud, waste, and abuse, as well as internal and program deficiencies within the government, and we take that responsibility seriously. For over 33 years, he safeguarded that trust and led audits that held both high-level officials and rank-and-file employees accountable. His service has played a vital role in strengthening transparency and integrity within the Government of the Virgin Islands. Consequently, his name has come to represent trust, honesty, and a standard of integrity that deters misconduct. He leaves behind a legacy of auditors who understand the importance of that trust and the consequences of its loss. Steve’s guidance continues to influence our work—from how we structure our reports to how we evaluate our findings. Many of us still hear his voice reminding us to be clear, concise, and precise; to ensure that every statement is supported; and to remain focused on what truly matters. One of his enduring principles was simple: if you believe something belongs in a report, defend it—prove its value, and it will stand. Furthermore, his legacy is reflected not only in the work he accomplished but also in the standard he set—one that will continue to guide this office for years to come. Though he may no longer be present in the office each day, his voice, standards, and principles remain with us. They are evident in every report we write and every finding we defend. For these reasons, and for his unwavering commitment to truth and accountability, he is most deserving of this honor. Again, thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today and to speak on behalf of the employees of the Virgin Islands Inspector General.