State Report Highly Critical Of Ex-Westfield State President

Evan Dobelle, who retired last year as Westfield State University President after the board of trustees put him on paid leave amid allegations he had recklessly spent university funds

Credit WSU

The Massachusetts Inspector General issued a scathing report Thursday on a former state university president’s use of school funds for personal purposes.

   Inspector General Glenn Cunha said former Westfield State University President Evan Dobelle knowingly and willingly violated school policy by spending lavishly for six years on trips and entertainment for himself, his family and friends.  Cunha called Dobelle’s behavior “outrageous”

Cunha said Dobelle " Lied to the board of trustees, encouraged family and friends to falsify government travel documents, and taking unwarranted privileges like having Westfield State pay for his personal travel."

    Cunha would not say if his investigation discovered any possible criminal violations. He said Dobelle declined an offer to be interviewed as part of the investigation.  Dobelle retired last fall after a months-long standoff with state education officials.