Provost makes unwise move

I have never written a letter to the editor, although I’ve been tempted many times. After reading an item in Sunday’s paper about Phyllis Wise, provost at the University of Washington, taking a spot on the Nike board, I’ve finally been pushed over the edge. Especially in these tough economic times, when student tuition is on the rise.

If it is true that she did not ask as to whether she would be reimbursed or if there would a conflict of interest, I find that beyond belief. If a person is the university’s second in command, I assume that person is well educated and I know well compensated, with a $535,000 salary as stated in the article.

Doesn’t it seem appropriate to ask about conflict of interest and reimbursement? If she didn’t ask those questions, then I am amazed that she is in such a high position. I believe she should immediately resign from the Nike board and frankly, if she doesn’t have that kind of judgment and integrity, perhaps she should resign from the University of Washington.

What is she thinking?

Ken Harkema

Spokane