DuPage Co. (ECWd) –

One only needs to look at the HLC report (bottom of page 23&top of 24) released today, to see that a PAY TO PLAY relationship took place with Foundation Board Member Carla Burkhart, Herricane Graphics, and COD.

“There is also the question of whether the awarding of such contracts avoided potential conflicts of interest or even the  appearance of such conflicts of interest. Investigations by some external entities and by attorneys retained by the College are ongoing. In addition, the College itself identified one particular contract as being improper. During an interview with the internal  auditor, the team was advised that a contract with Herricane Graphics was entered into after the contract deadline. According to the internal auditor, this contract was therefore invalid. Yet, despite knowledge of this clear violation, the contract was still accepted by the College.”

So we now have CONFIRMATION of a clear violation yet nothing was done to stop the placement of even more funds into the hands of a Foundation Board member.  If that does not point to pay to play favoritism, I don’t know what does.

How this is not criminal is beyond me. 

Once again, we ask the State’s Attorney to hold these people accountable!