Utah State University Receives Restored Funding After Audit of Former President’s Spending
Utah State University (USU) will receive the remaining $8.8 million of state funding that had been withheld, following a unanimous vote by the Executive Appropriations Committee last week. The release of funds comes after months of uncertainty and an audit addressing concerns over spending by the university’s previous president, Elizabeth “Betsy” Cantwell.
Background of the Funding Withhold
In September, the Utah Legislature approved restoring funding to all public universities and colleges in the state except USU. This decision stemmed from a controversial $60.5 million cut to the higher education budget, which required institutions to eliminate “inefficient” academic programs and reinvest funds into degrees aligned with high-wage job opportunities. USU’s initial share of the cuts was $12.6 million.
Concerns Over Previous President’s Spending
Lawmakers initially delayed full approval of USU’s funding restoration plan, citing concerns over the spending practices of former President Cantwell. A report by The Salt Lake Tribune detailed expenditures including a bidet, a heat-controlled golf cart, and two new cars, totaling over $660,000 during her 18-month tenure.
Legislators expressed concerns that Cantwell and other administrators may have violated state law by circumventing contract approval requirements.
State Audit Findings and Legislative Response
A state audit, completed at the end of January 2026, confirmed the findings of The Salt Lake Tribune’s reporting. The audit revealed instances where Cantwell’s actions likely broke state law. Lawmakers strongly criticized Cantwell’s spending but praised current President Brad Mortensen for his leadership in addressing the issues.
President Mortensen assured legislators that USU had responded to the audit’s findings and was implementing the recommended changes.
Restoration of Funding and Future Plans
Following the audit and Mortensen’s commitment to reform, the Executive Appropriations Committee voted to release the remaining $8.8 million to USU via wire transfer. President Mortensen announced the positive outcome to the campus community and scheduled a town hall meeting on March 6, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. At the Eccles Conference Center auditorium to address any remaining questions from faculty, staff, and students.
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