Dynes' executive pay controversy

The San Francisco Chronicle reports:

Robert Dynes could have another academic year as UC president, but if his legacy were written today after nearly four years at the helm, he probably would be remembered most for the university's executive pay scandal.

Dynes, who announced on Monday his intent to step down by June or when a replacement is found, is credited by those who worked with him with many accomplishments for the 10-campus university system.

But public attention and political heat focused largely on revelations - brought to light by The Chronicle beginning in November 2005 - of millions of dollars in hidden perks and benefits for some of the university's highest paid employees at a time when students fees were rising and campus services declining. UC policies on compensation often were ignored or circumvented, at times without the required approval or even knowledge of the governing Board of Regents.

The revelations were followed by three audits last year - conducted by the state, the university and an outside firm - substantiating abuses and improper payments. Three state senators called for Dynes' resignation, but the regents expressed their confidence in him.

No word yet from tenured Marxists on this one.