AU President Benjamin Ladner expressed optimism that the Board of Trustee's investigation into allegations he misused university money will turn out favorably.
"I am looking forward to a positive outcome when the charges are fully reviewed," Ladner told Bloomberg News in a telephone interview from his home this morning. "With respect to the board's announcement, I am cooperating."
Leslie Bains, chair of the board, announced Wednesday the board suspended Ladner while laywers and auditors investigate allegations the president spent university money on personal expenses, including presents for his children, European vacations and a French chef.
Provost Neil Kerwin will serve as president while Ladner is on administrative leave, according to a statement by Leslie Bains, chair of the board.
"This announcement does not cast any judgment on President Ladner," said SG Secretary Joe Vidulich. "The investigation still has to take its course. We're waiting for the investigation to come to a close, and then we'll have a reaction."
Outside lawyers and auditors, along with the board's Audit Committee, will continue the probe into the "personal and travel expenses in one department." There is no time frame for the conclusion of the investigation, which began in July. Ladner will be paid while on leave, according to The Washington Post.
