Regents split on use of private funds

Friday, Aug. 15, 2003 | 9:48 a.m.

RENO -- The state Board of Regents would still retain the authority to decide on pay raises for college presidents if private money were donated for this purpose, a system attorney says.

Thomas Ray, general counsel for the University and Community College System of Nevada, told a meeting of the board that any contributions received from the universities' foundations could be used to supplement the salary of presidents.

Ray said it would have to be an "unrestricted gift" and have to be paid to the regents, who would then distribute it.

Regents have disagreed about accepting outside money to boost the salaries of presidents in this time of limited state funding. A study showed university presidents in Nevada receive an average of $30,000 less per year than their counterparts in the West.

Chancellor Jane Nichols said the system is always looking for nonstate dollars for benefits such as housing and autos.

Regent Steve Sisolak of Las Vegas said there are "limited state dollars" and these are tough issues. Regent Tom Kirkpatrick of Las Vegas said he knows the money can't come out of the state for this purpose.

But Regent Howard Rosenburg of Reno said he was diametrically opposed to private money being sought for pay raises. Regent Doug Hill of Sparks said he had "grave concerns" about such a plan.

Regent Marcia Bandera of Elko said, "If we can't go to the moon on salaries," the system has to look at other ways the presidents may be paid, such as deferred compensation, enhanced retirement or insurance.

Bandera said protections need to be put into effect if this policy of private donations is approved so presidents who receive the raises are not beholden to the contributors.

The regents will make a decision on the issue at its October meeting.