LOGAN, Utah (Aug. 20, 2025) — Utah State University will undergo a full state audit after lawmakers raised concerns about spending by its former president's office and shortcomings in governance and procurement oversight.
The Utah Legislative Audit Subcommittee voted unanimously Tuesday to conduct a comprehensive audit following a limited review by the state Auditor General's Office. That preliminary report found that executive staff had approved contracts between $52,000 and $430,000 without completing formal purchasing procedures. It also revealed a significant increase in purchase-card spending by the president's office over the past two years, and capital expenses on vehicles nearly tripled compared to the previous five-year period.
Jesse Martinson, senior performance auditor, said the limited review uncovered enough red flags to warrant a deeper investigation. "We believe that there are some areas that need examination: procurement, purchase orders, expenses... as well as... governance and the leadership and the overall structure and processes that govern that process," he told lawmakers.
The concerns follow investigative reporting by The Salt Lake Tribune, which documented that former President Elizabeth "Betsy" Cantwell spent approximately $661,800 of university funds on new cars, a Salt Lake City apartment, extensive travel and lavish office furnishings—including a $750 bidet. Cantwell resigned in March to lead Washington State University.
Board of Trustees member Tessa White affirmed the university's cooperation. "We welcome the audit," she said. "There are areas that we are aware of and taking aggressive steps to remedy. We hope that by the time that audit is done, we will have a list of things completed that will give you greater confidence in the school."
Interim President Alan L. Smith, dean of the College of Education and Human Services, is leading the institution as USU searches for a permanent president.
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