Spending of Vanderbilt U. Leader Draws Criticism

Vanderbilt University’s chief executive, E. Gordon Gee, is one of the most successful fund raisers in the country, but also one of the most extravagant spenders—which leaves the institution in a tricky position, reports The Wall Street Journal.

In just six years, Mr. Gee has raised more than $1-billion and significantly improved Vanderbilt’s academic reputation, the newspaper says, but his annual compensation of $1.4-million and the extensive, costly renovations to his university-owned mansion—paid for without official university approval—have raised hackles.

In addition, activities by his wife, Constance—such as lowering a flag to half-mast when George W. Bush won the 2004 presidential election, and reports of her smoking marijuana in the mansion—have embarrassed the university.

Officials have no interest in forcing out Mr. Gee but did say they needed to curb his excesses so the university’s trustees have formed a special committee to monitor his spending.

The scrutiny comes at a time when college and other nonprofit leaders are being criticized over their pay, the newspaper notes. (Read about The Chronicle of Philanthropy’s new survey of salaries of nonprofit chief executives.)

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