In a letter to the University of Wisconsin System, Rep. Steve Nass, R-Whitewater, voiced concern regarding the leadership skills and other recent issues regarding UW-Stevens Point Chancellor Linda Bunnell.
According to spokesperson Mike Mikalsen, Nass’ concern derived from an alleged “hit-and-run” by Bunnell that occurred last week.
He added Nass has been concerned about the chancellor’s spending habits and the way she interacts with the community.
“The issues have been developing over time,” Mikalson said. “The foundation board has been extremely critical of her spending habits in regard to foundation funds. [Bunnell] has outspent her allotment, and the foundation board has questioned in particular how she spends money in entertainment and travel.”
According to Mikalsen, several UW-Stevens Point alumni have refused to give donations to the university until problems with chancellor are solved.
The UW-Stevens Point student government also unanimously voted “no confidence” in their chancellor, which Nass asked the system to address, according to Mikalsen.
“Nass was encouraging the UW System to be proactive and take appropriate actions with the chancellor or community to try and repair those relationships,” Mikalsen added. “Nass would like to see them mediate disputes which would dissolve issues. … If you have a poor leader she needs to be held accountable.”
UW System spokesperson David Giroux said in an e-mail that the system is working to address issues regarding the chancellor.
“His office raised questions, and we’re addressing those questions,” Giroux said. “We are taking a ‘proactive’ approach to this matter and that effort began long before Rep. Nass’ letter.”
According to Giroux, the system was previously aware of Bunnell’s car accident.
Giroux added the chancellor notified UW System President Kevin Reilly and provided evidence Bunnell had, in fact, paid the fine of the accident in full.
“President Reilly has also previously spoken to members of the UWSP Foundation Board of Directors regarding their concerns, and we are still working to facilitate improved communication among those board members and Chancellor Bunnell,” Giroux said.
The issue regarding the vote of the UW-Stevens Point student government will be addressed Monday to determine whether further action needs to take place, Giroux said.
“I believe that Chancellor Bunnell is attempting to schedule a meeting with the student leaders to address their concerns, and we hope that conversation will shed some additional light on the matter,” Giroux said.
