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UMW President Frawley's contract detailed as board of visitors ponders his future Date published: 4/27/2007
BY JEFF BRANSCOME PDF: Click here to read Frawley's entire contract If the University of Mary Washington's board of visitors chooses to remove President William Frawley, his contract could make that complicated and expensive. The 12-member board discussed Frawley's future yesterday in closed session but didn't take any action. Rector Bill Poole has declined to elaborate on the board's discussions. Members are scheduled to meet again for a special session Monday at 1 p.m. in the Jepson Alumni Executive Center. Frawley, who took over as president last July, was put on paid leave earlier this month after being charged with driving under the influence twice in two days. He's scheduled to appear in court next month in Fairfax County and in July in Fredericksburg. Frawley wasn't at yesterday's meeting. In a statement released last week, he said he is recovering at his Maryland home from a heart disorder. Board members have not indicated that they want Frawley gone, but if they do, they have three options under his contract: Fire him "with cause," fire him "without cause" or negotiate a resignation. Here's what the contract says about those categories. WITH CAUSEMembers can fire him with cause for several reasons, including: "Gross negligence" or "willful malfeasance" that harms the university. Conduct "detrimental to the interests of the university." Frawley gets a chance to remedy this conduct "to the extent curable" within 30 days of notice. Actions that are willfully criminal. The contract doesn't state whether Frawley has to be convicted for this clause to apply. A material breach of his contract that damages the university. Frawley's duties listed in the agreement include "fostering positive external relationships" with government agencies and "public and alumni relations." Frawley would stop getting paid by the university immediately after being fired with cause. without causeFrawley would be entitled to 18 months pay if the board fired him without cause. He makes $305,000 annually. After the first six months, UMW would reduce its payments if he gets another job. He would receive deferred compensation from the nonprofit UMW Foundation, according to the contract. resignationThe board could also accept Frawley's resignation. Or, the university could make a deal with him in return for his leaving, such as agreeing to pay his salary for six months. This isn't addressed in the contract. UMW's attorney Jack Knight, who works for the Virginia Attorney General's office, would not comment. Frawley did not return a call to his cell phone. Jeff Branscome: 540/374-5402Email: jbranscome@freelancestar.com
Date published: 4/27/2007
Yep, the hallowed halls of the university are taking priority over what the public, students are saying. Why this is taking weeks rather than days is beyond me, except for highly educated people have more protections in our society than regular people.
What would have happened if a nut opened fire on the UMW campus with Frawley at teh helm. Do you feel comfortable that this man would have the leadership to deal with it, especially now? He should be fired with cause, because aside from leadership, he's also supposed to be the chief fundraiser for the school, and I don't think he can do that with his tarnished image.
in the headlights of public opinion. UMW regents, like Medicorp directors, can only keep house behind closed doors (interesting to see how many housekeepers they share). Though "Sweep It Under the Rug" is the action of choice, things get stickier when company's coming. Both institutions, in my opinion, need a good housecleaning.
Frawley committed a crime. Make that two crimes. These were not petty crimes, by any means. He could have killed someone both times. He has brought negative attention to the University. Therefore, he needs to be fired with cause and without pay. I understand it takes money to find a new President. However, this time maybe they can find one that will keep it under control. He has violated his contract, and last time I checked, that is cause for removal without pay. He screwed up, now he has the consequences.
The President of UMW is charged with "fostering positive external relationships" with government agencies . Maybe you could understand one incident, but to have two incidents back-to-back is unacceptable.
This alumna believes Dr. Frawley is fostering a negative image of our institution. How can he set an example for the young adults coming to UMW, whcn his public image has been tarnished?
And why should he get paid for not holding up his end of the contract?
Kathy Stephens
UMW '05
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