American U. Faces a Tussle at the Top

Reports of lavish spending lead professors and students to call for president's ouster

Benjamin Ladner wasn't worried last spring when American University's Board of Trustees sent him a letter saying he was to be the subject of a "routine, periodic audit."

As president of the university since 1994, Mr. Ladner had been privy to many other audits, most of which he says lasted a few weeks and involved a review of records and receipts -- a fairly simple kicking of the financial

Digital or Print Subscription

Already have an account? Log In Now.