Governor Bentley’s Statement at Alabama State University Board of Trustees Meeting – November 30, 2012

“I was very proud and privileged to be here last week at the dedication of Alabama State’s beautiful new stadium.  You only have to look around this campus to see the tremendous progress that Alabama State has made and continues to make every day.

This university is vitally important to this community, to our state and to our nation.  And we don’t ever need to lose sight that our students are our first priority.  And we don’t need to forget that in any way.  That is very important.  Their education and their future are the reasons that we must stay focused on delivering a quality learning experience.

I know this board is faced with some very difficult challenges.  That’s why I have met with Chairman Dean and other members of the board.  I have also met with the president of the Faculty Senate, the president of the Student Government Association and the head of the ASU National Alumni Association.  In addition, I have met with and spoken with Dr. Silver to gain his perspective.

The issue before all of us now is to do what is best for Alabama State University.  Toward that end, Chairman Dean has agreed with me that an independent and comprehensive financial audit of this university will be conducted immediately.  That is a positive step in the right direction.

The students, faculty, staff and alumni of Alabama State University, and all the people of this state, deserve transparency in everything that we do.  And I am going to make sure that happens.  Thank you.”

– Governor Robert Bentley