CSU Stanislaus Releases Palin Speaker's Contract

PUBLIC INFORMATION -- CSU Stanislaus today released the Sarah Palin speaking engagement contract as ordered by the judge in the case brought by Californians Aware, with the following statement by University Counsel Dawn Theodora.

While we appreciate the court's acknowledgment that foundations remain nonprofit, private charitable organizations not subject to the Public Records Act, we find his interpretation regarding the university's 'use' of the contract regarding Sarah Palin's appearance at the 50^th anniversary gala at California State University Stanislaus to be very puzzling.  It appears that the judge, without direct evidence, made an assumption based on one email exchange that the Chancellor had in fact actually seen a copy of the contract, when that is not the case.  

However, since the court has mandated that the university produce the contract, we will be requesting that the California State University Stanislaus Foundation disclose the contract since the university has never had a copy.  The university complied with CalAware's original request and provided more than 3,000 pages of records in May. 

We are disappointed with the court's ruling, but will comply with the requirements set out in the order.  In addition, we recognize the Foundation's responsibility to remain accountable and transparent to the public, and will continue to provide information relevant to the public about the operations of the foundation, and also comply with all state and federal laws that govern nonprofit organizations including auxiliaries.

Yet to be released are university records documenting its costs of providing personnel, equipment, facilities and other support for the Palin event, which the CSU Foundation is required to reimburse.