Member Spotlight – Mai Estelle Konate-Bauman

June 17, 2026

“ACUA has had a tremendous impact on my professional development. I attended my first AuditCon in Louisville, Kentucky, in 2025, and it was an amazing experience. Not only did I learn from the educational sessions, but I also had the opportunity to network with auditors from across the country. It allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone to meet new people and build new connections and was incredibly rewarding. After AuditCon, I joined ACUA’s Artificial Intelligence Committee because I am passionate about emerging technologies and the ways AI can help auditors work more efficiently.

Today, I volunteer with both the Artificial Intelligence Committee and the Social Media Committee. I enjoy contributing in different ways, whether that is creating content, sharing ideas, or collaborating with fellow auditors on innovative approaches to our work. The friendships, knowledge, opportunities, and encouragement I have received through ACUA have been invaluable, and I am super grateful to be part of such a welcoming and supportive organization.”

Professional Background
Mai Estelle Konate-Bauman moved to the United States from Côte d’Ivoire in 2018 as an international student to pursue my education. Mai began her academic journey at Bryant & Stratton College before transferring to the University at Buffalo, where she earned my bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in Financial Analysis in 2022 and later completing a master’s degree in business Analytics in 2023. Mai is currently pursuing an MBA at the University at Buffalo while continuing her career in internal auditing.

After completing her graduate studies in Analytics, Mai was selected for a one-year scholarship program with HSBC’s Internal Audit team, where she worked in Financial Crime Risk Data Analytics. In that role, Mai had the opportunity to combine her interests in auditing, data analytics, and process improvement with helping support audit and automation initiatives. In July 2024, Mai became a Staff Auditor at the University at Buffalo.

One of Mai’s favorite things about higher education auditing is that she is constantly learning. Every audit gives Mai the opportunity to better understand how different departments operate and how they contribute to the university’s mission. Mai is intrigued by how the moving pieces come together to support students, faculty, and staff.

Outside of work, Mai loves traveling and experiencing new cultures. Additionally, she enjoys video editing and creating designs in Canva. Mai’s interest in creativity and communication is what motivated her to volunteer with ACUA’s Social Media Committee.

In thinking on about her life, Mai says “it has been an incredible journey. What makes it even more special is that I now work as an Internal Auditor at the University at Buffalo. Going from being an international student on campus to becoming part of the university’s professional community feels like a true full-circle moment.”

Spotlight Nomination

“Since joining ACUA, Mai has been an invaluable addition to the volunteer team. Her initiative and dedication are evident in her willingness to jump in and help wherever needed. In a short time, Mai has volunteered and made a great impact on the AI, Social Media, and now the Volunteer Recognition Committee. A true testament to her dedication to helping others. Thank you so much to Mai for all of your hard work with ACUA! I look forward to seeing what you do next!”