California State University, Stanislaus President Hamid Shirvani released the following statement today regarding the lawsuit filed by Californians Aware:
“The University has complied with all legal obligations when responding to Public Records Act requests regarding the University’s 50th Anniversary Gala. The CSU Stanislaus Foundation also responded to Public Records Act requests for a copy of the Palin contract and speakers fee by stating that as a 501c3 foundation, it is not subject to the Public Records Act. Raising money to support university and student programs is exactly why the California Legislature established the ability for universities to created private foundations. The CSUS Foundation’s sole aim is to raise private funds to support student scholarships and programs. Given declining state support for higher education, private fund raising is more vital than ever. The Foundation has stated that it will provide the net costs and net revenue of the event.
The 50th Anniversary celebration will raise more money than any single fundraiser that CSU Stanislaus has ever had and is attracting donors who have never previously donated to the university or supported university events. The June 25 Gala is expected to raise between $100,000 and $200,000, which will go toward enhancing students’ education. That is money that would otherwise not be available to support our students.”