The University of Arizona has serious financial problems. Resolution will surely have major impacts on students and faculty. The public has another interest that's being overlooked: getting a clear understanding of how a public institution was so far off on its budget projections for this fiscal year.
In his 11/14 op-ed, Regents Chair Fred DuVal said, "President Robbins enjoys the full support of the board." I hope Mr. DuVal can explain to taxpayers why his confidence is justified. Of course UA shares the challenges common in higher ed today. But his op-ed failed to explain the $240 million shortfall. The Star reported, "the method the university normally uses [to forecasted cash on hand] was significantly off." I'll say!
Compared to the average Arizonan, UA’s CFO Lisa Rulney and President Robert Robbins are paid enormous salaries. In theory that's due to their managerial expertise. How can the public trust that UA has administrators and practices in place to prevent a recurrence? We expect full transparency and accountability.
Jim Armstrong
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
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