University of Central Florida President Dale Whittaker has offered his resignation after an audit revealed the school's misuse of more than $30 million in funds.
My full note to our amazing campus community is here: https://t.co/VeLkN55VW8 4/4
— Dale Whittaker (@UCFWhittaker) February 19, 2019
Whittaker was confirmed as president in March of 2018.
WFTV in Orlando obtained the following statement from the UCF Board of Trustees Chairman Robert Garvy:
In his offer to resign, Dr. Whittaker is putting the interests of our students and the University above his own. Dale has served this university with distinction since his arrival as provost in 2014 and his selection as president in 2018. His record of achievements, personal integrity, leadership, engagement, and insistence on the highest standards of personal conduct have been recognized and admired throughout our institution, the 68,000 students we serve and the Central Florida community.
According to WFTV, the resignation comes after a Jan. 9 audit that revealed a misuse of more than $30 million in funds. That money was reportedly designated for salaries and operational costs, but was instead spent on building Trevor Colburn Hall on campus.
However, WFTV also notes that the decision to build Trevor Colburn Hall was made prior to Whittaker becoming President.
The station also reports that President Emeritus John Hitt resigned and four high-ranking university administrators were fired over the misspending scandal back in January. Chief Financial Officer Bill Merck was also forced to resign.
On Thursday, the board of the University of Central Florida accepted Whittaker's resignation, two days after he offered to step down.
