BOSTON (AP) — A donor who had planned a $100,000 gift to Westfield State University says he is withdrawing the offer in light of revelations that the college’s president spent lavishly.
John P. Walsh, president of Elizabeth Grady cosmetics, told The Boston Globe in an email he is withdrawing his offer to the college’s foundation, which raises money for scholarships and other educational programs, unless President Evan Dobelle either steps down or reimburses the college.
A report found that Dobelle billed the foundation for more than $200,000 in travel, meals and entertainment. Dobelle said the spending has been to promote the university and repaid some.
In reaction to the withdrawal of Walsh’s gift, Dobelle said in a statement that Walsh never formally pledged the $100,000. He also invited Walsh to contact him.
There will be a Westfield State University Board of Trustees Special Meeting at 6 p.m. in the board room of the Horace Mann Center for the Board and President to receive and discuss the agreed upon procedures report of the University’s accounting firm.
