A recent audit of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system has highlighted concerns over Chancellor Terrence Cheng's use of an institutional credit card for expenses that included meals and transportation. While the audit determined that Cheng did not violate system policies, it noted that he exhibited poor judgment.

According to the report, Cheng charged up to $1,114 to the school's credit card for restaurant meals and private chauffeurs even though he had access to a state-provided vehicle. The audit also revealed gaps in documentation, noting that 43% of food-related purchases were either missing itemized receipts or not submitting receipts entirely.

For those facing accusations of misusing institutional credit cards, the CSCU audit underscores the importance of understanding related policies and knowing how to defend one's actions. If you're dealing with similar allegations, contact the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 — or fill out a contact form.

How Top Colleges Manage Corporate Card Usage

These types of policies should clearly define acceptable expenses, documentation requirements, and penalties for violating rules. Below are summaries of the procurement card (P-Card) policies for a few leading U.S. colleges.

New York University (NYU)

At New York University (NYU), the P-Card is designed for small, work-related purchases that cannot be completed through the university's i-Buy system. Issued as a MasterCard to approved staff, the card streamlines procurement for minor expenses. However, the P-Card strictly prohibits personal expenses and travel-related costs.

Any misuse of the card, including unauthorized purchases, may result in its suspension. Cardholders are required to retain all original receipts and include them in their monthly expense reports to ensure proper documentation and accountability.

Arizona State University (ASU)

The P-Card at ASU helps make business-related purchases that comply with the university's financial policies. All transactions must align with ASU's P-Card, Purchasing, and Financial Services policies. To ensure transparency, cardholders must promptly upload supporting documentation for each transaction, including business meal forms that outline the public purpose and clearly state the business justification.

University of Michigan

At the University of Michigan, the P-Card is intended for university-related purchases by the assigned cardholder — and cannot be shared or transferred. All purchases must directly benefit the university and align with the responsibilities of the cardholder's department or office. Cardholders must keep thorough and precise records of every transaction to guarantee accountability.

Protecting Your Professional Future

Faculty and staff accused of misusing official corporate credit cards issued by their educational institution can face significant challenges. Allegations of financial misconduct can jeopardize professional reputations, lead to disciplinary actions, and — in severe cases, result in termination or legal consequences.

At the Lento Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming it can be to face accusations as a college employee alone. Our experience in defending faculty and staff against these allegations helps ensure a thorough review of the evidence. Our Education Law Team is committed to client excellence, leveraging our skills to negotiate with institutional administrators — and handle internal disciplinary processes.

If you're facing allegations, contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help defend your rights. To learn more, contact us at 888-535-3686 or fill out a contact form.