Several sources have confirmed that the Higher Learning Commission sent a letter to the University of New Mexico electronically on Aug. 15 expressing concerns over the University’s recent financial oversights, which are a part of a current investigation by State Auditor Tim Keller.
Daniel Lidbit of NM Fishbowl reported on the nature of the electronic communication and how UNM’s accreditation could potentially be at risk depending on several factors.
The letter, which was later released by multiple sources including UNM, detailed the HLC’s requests. Those requests seem to have stemmed from the HLC expressing concern over a special audit into some of the practices of the Athletic Department and an inquiry from the office of the New Mexico Attorney General.
Some of the recent incidents involving alleged financial mishaps including: the funding of a golf trip to Scotland and uncollected debt from suite rentals at the team’s basketball arena, “The Pit.”
The letter requested information regarding the basis of the audit and the actions taken by the State Auditor or any other state offices. The commission also asked for a summary of the impact those actions may have on the University, giving a deadline of Sept. 14 to receive the documentation.
The office of Interim University President Chaouki Abdallah sent a University-wide email on Aug. 16 to inform the community of the request, stating that the University would comply once the audit is completed.
The email also said the leadership at the University of New Mexico wanted to “clarify that the University is financially sound, as shown by all recent independent University-wide audits and to alleviate any concerns.”
It is possible that the request is standard procedure under the given circumstances, but Abdallah said leadership considered it to be a top priority.
Abdallah also said there is an expectation that the audit will “reaffirm the University’s financial health and educational quality” when it is concluded.
A recent Albuquerque Journal article reported that the special audit report is expected to be completed in early fall.
The article also discussed the importance of accreditation for students in order to receive federal financial aid and have their credits recognized by other colleges and universities when transferring to another institution.
Robert Maler is the sports editor for the Daily Lobo. He primarily covers football and men’s and women’s tennis. He can be contacted at sports@dailylobo.com or on Twitter @robert_maler.
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