New at 5, a state probe into Texas Southern University is drawing sharp reaction. Some lawmakers are defending TSU after an audit flagged millions in questionable expenses. KSU 11’s Steven Goheen has their reaction for us. Texas Southern, now under a microscope after Governor Abbott launched an investigation. The inquiry prompted by a letter from the state auditor, which reveals preliminary findings from a month-long review of the school’s financial processes.
The audit finding more than $400 million of invoices facing scrutiny. But in a statement, TSU. Pushback and said in part the school enacted corrective measures prior to the release of the interim report, including a new procurement system. Today lawmakers reacting.
State Rep Yolanda Jones, whose district includes TSU, says her connection to the school runs deep.
My mother graduated from the Texas Southern University. My dad attended Texas Southern, — and she — argues that Governor Abbott, who appoints the school’s Board of Regents, would share responsibility for any issues at TSU. If there’s any malfeasance going on, and we don’t know that there is, if there is, what does that have to do with the university when you appointed the people who are running this university? She also believes the criticism against the school is rooted in race, and you are literally. Trying to destroy black excellence.
You’re trying to erase us. You’re trying to get rid of us. State Rep Ron Reynolds, who graduated from TSU, shares that view. He also questions whether the investigation is part of a broader push to limit the school’s autonomy, a pattern of this climate that we find ourselves in that is anti-diversity, equity and inclusion.
We have enjoyed the independence.
And there are many people who want to see TSU in the system. Meanwhile, Reynolds says the school’s future could be put at risk if state leaders freeze TSU’s funding, as Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has suggested as the investigation continues. What does this mean that they’re going to freeze the funding for Texas Southern University? How are they going to operate on a day to day basis? In Houston, Steven Golden, KHOU 11 News.
Thanks so much Steven. Now late this afternoon, TSU Board of Regents released a statement. It reads in part, quote, The board fully acknowledges that Texas Southern has faced historical challenges related to financial oversight, procurement practices, and compliance with prior state audits. These issues have persisted across multiple administrations and now are being addressed. The board has been focused on corrective actions and will continue to do so.
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