UW embattled by personnel controversies over summer

A series of personnel issues put UW–Madison and the UW System under harsh public criticism over the summer, spurring statewide policy reviews that may prompt changes in the months ahead.

News reports and legislative inquiries began in June over a seven-month leave granted to former vice chancellor for student affairs Paul Barrows, who used a combination of accrued sick leave and vacation time after resigning in November.

Questions focused on the length and propriety of the leave, Barrows’ pursuit of other jobs over the leave, as well as revelations that a failed relationship with a graduate student led to his resignation.

On June 30, Madison attorney, former Dane County Circuit judge and Law School professor Susan Steingass agreed to conduct an independent investigation into the Barrows matter. Steingass is expected to complete her inquiry in coming weeks and submit findings jointly to UW System President Kevin Reilly and UW–Madison Provost Peter Spear for their review and action.

Legislative furor over the Barrows case prompted the General Assembly to approve a $1 million cut to the UW–Madison administration budget in the 2005-07 biennium.

Meanwhile, a second inquiry launched in June by the UW System Board of Regents will assess a range of salary, compensation and competitiveness issues. One focus will be on the use of backup appointments in academic staff employment packages. Media and legislative criticisms have focused on whether the practice is too widespread in the UW System. On July 26, the UW System suspended the granting of any further backup appointments until the board inquiry is completed later this fall.

“Through this review, we will ensure that our policies are not only proper, but followed by each UW institution in both letter and spirit,” Reilly says.

Negative reports involving UW personnel moves targeted administrative leaves, backup positions and the handling of the status of employees convicted of crimes.

Chancellor John Wiley acknowledges that the collective weight of these controversies has taken a toll on public perception and campus morale, but he is confident that the current reviews will bring closure and accountability on these matters, most of which revolve around contractual employment issues.

“I understand how demoralizing these issues are for the university community, especially as they threaten to overshadow attention on the vital importance we play in Wisconsin’s future,” Wiley says.

“I am confident that the steps we are taking as a campus and a system will resolve these matters, while respecting the principles of due process for individuals,” he adds. “If our policies and procedures are found in need of reform, we welcome ideas on how we can operate better.”

A public statement for Wiley on the Barrows matter can be found online at http://www.news.wisc.edu/releases/11305.html. An open letter from Wiley to the campus community can be found at http://www.news.wisc.edu/11307.html.