Utah University Presidents Facing Misconduct Allegations Lose Salary Benefits After Resignation
New Policy on Salary Benefits
The Utah Board of Higher Education has announced a new policy regarding the salary benefits of university presidents who resign while under investigation for misconduct. Under the updated guidelines, these individuals will no longer be eligible to receive their full salaries for up to one year post-resignation if credible allegations of misconduct exist.
Restrictions on Benefits
This policy revision restricts the benefit to scenarios where there are no findings of serious misconduct following an investigation. Previously, former presidents had the ability to continue receiving salary benefits as part of their separation agreements.
Response to Richard Williams’ Resignation
The amendment is a direct response to the resignation of Richard “Biff” Williams, who was the president of Utah Tech University. Williams stepped down in January after a ten-year tenure while being investigated for alleged sexual harassment and misconduct. At the time of his resignation, he continued to receive an annual salary of $357,000 and remained in the presidential residence for six months before transitioning to a new position at Missouri State University in July.
Concerns Over Financial Benefits
These financial benefits, categorized as a “transition year” allowance, are funded by state taxpayers and are available to presidents who have served a minimum of three years and either retire or move to other roles.
Details of Allegations
Concerns regarding these policies intensified following reports of alleged inappropriate conduct by Williams prior to his resignation. A recent federal lawsuit details an incident in which Williams reportedly presented a gag gift resembling male genitalia to a vice president at Utah Tech. The lawsuit claims that employees who reported this incident faced retaliation.
Impact of the Lawsuit
In the wake of the lawsuit, it was indicated that the university’s approach to the misconduct investigation may have shielded Williams from receiving further repercussions during his transition period.
Williams’ Response and Current Situation
Following his appointment at Missouri State, Williams issued a public statement acknowledging a “lapse in judgment” regarding the gift but denied the other allegations outlined in the lawsuit. Both Williams and Missouri State University have not provided further comments on the ongoing situation.
Emphasizing Accountability
The updated policy is intended to enhance accountability among university presidents in Utah, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards of conduct. This policy was first established in 1976 and has recently come under scrutiny due to the allegations involving Williams.
Search for New Leadership
Currently, a search is in progress to find a new president for Utah Tech University.
Source: The Salt Lake Tribune.