CHICAGO (AP) – A legislator panel is taking testimony about reforming community college executive pay and other issues in the wake of questionable spending and severance practices at a suburban Chicago community college. The College of DuPage has been under investigation by authorities and education officials. The school has faced criticism over a $763,000 severance package to end president Robert Breuder’s contract early.
Lawmakers have since proposed a slew of bills to address issues at other colleges, including pushing earlier this year for a review of all public institutions that revealed perks like car and housing allowances.
Democratic state Sen. Bill Cunningham of Chicago says the DuPage situation has put a spotlight on other institutions and potential loopholes in state law.
He’s proposed legislation calling for regular audits and performance reviews.
