The News & Observer
 

January 13, 2006

Trustees at Halifax Community College voted today to fire college President Ted Gasper Jr. following investigations of how the president handled school finances, personnel contracts and the use of employees in political campaigns.

Gasper was placed on administrative leave in September while the board reviewed various complaints against him. Some of the issues were outlined in an audit released by State Auditor Les Merritt in October.

The audit said Gasper needed to account for more than $15,000 in questionable reimbursements and fringe benefits. It also raised questions about whether Gasper fully informed trustees about changes in his contract that effectively guaranteed him a $375,000 buyout if he was terminated without cause.

In addition to the auditor's findings, state community college officials were told by former employees that Gasper abused the college's use of one-year and short-term contracts. A former executive secretary also told local trustees and state officials that she was expected to help organize a political fundraiser on school time.

Gasper, who could not immediately be reached for comment, has denied doing anything wrong at the college throughout the investigation.

Martin Lancaster, president of the statewide system of 58 community colleges, had been unusually critical of Gasper in the weeks leading up to the investigation. But today he released only a short statement after the local board's decision.

"We all recognize that this has been a difficult time for Halifax Community College," he said. "The State Board of Community Colleges and the system office will do everything possible to support the college as it transitions to new leadership."

The campus is located about 90 miles northeast of the Triangle just east of I-95.