The recent uncovering of cronyism and tax dollar waste associated with North Carolina State Uniuversity is disappointing.  The total reckless disregard for ethical standards is a blemish on a well regarded higher institution of learning in the nation and will take time to repair the damage done.

The one thing we have learned is that our public university system is filled with the same back room politics that generally is done within government on a daily basis.  I am confident in stating that I believe the incidents at NC State are not isolated to just this one institution.  I bet that if probed deeper, we would find more such incidents at our other insititutions of higher learning in the state.

In a time where budgets are scrutinized down to the last penny, incidents like NC State reveal a need for better oversight of public institutions.  I believe it is necessary for the NC General Assembly to appoint a special committee to investigate the entire UNC system for fraud and abuse.

The general assembly owes it to the public to ensure the tax payers that their money is being spent on the appropriated line-items.