State audit criticizes MSSU's buyout of Julio Leon's contract; university officials uncooperative with auditors

Missouri Southern State University officials thumbed their noses at State Auditor Thomas Schweich's crew as it looked into the buyout of former President Julio Leon's contract.

The audit, which was released today, also criticized deals given to departing officials at other state universities:

MSSU entered a separation agreement with then-President Dr. Julio S. Leon
in August 2007 which entitled Dr. Leon to a payment of $168,518 upon his
resignation with no obligation to perform any future tasks, duties or
obligations for the university. Dr. Leon, who had been with MSSU for 38
years, 25 of which he was President, was also to be named "President
Emeritus" and be provided a faculty office and computer in the Business
School. Dr. Leon had the option of teaching part-time at the prorated
compensation rate as the highest paid professor, but Dr. Leon did not
exercise this option. The August 2007 agreement was a modification of Dr.
Leon's existing employment contract which provided for a 6 month sabbatical at his monthly base pay upon his resignation, provided that he gave a full year's noticeemployment payments, and MSSU did not provide an explanation upon our request. of his intention to resign. In addition, he would have the right to teach at a salary equal to 115 percent of the highest paid professor's salary, and, if he were terminated for any reason other than for cause, he would received his base pay for 12 months. Neither agreement explains the purpose of the contemplated post-employment payments, and MSSU did not provide an explanation upon our request.

The audit determined that the agreement reached with Dr. Leon, as well as those of four other universities and their former officials, "may not comply with state law and/or may not be in the best interest of the university."