N.C. State's Chancellor and Provost to Testify Before Grand Jury

The chancellor and the departing provost of North Carolina State University will appear before a grand jury tomorrow as part of a widening criminal investigation of dealings involving a former governor, Michael F. Easley, The News & Observer of Raleigh reported.

In subpoenas summoning them to appear, James L. Oblinger, the chancellor, and Larry A. Nielsen, who recently announced his resignation as provost, were asked by federal authorities to discuss the hiring, promotion, and compensation of Mary Easley, the former governor’s wife, who was hired by the university in 2005 as a senior lecturer and director of a speakers program.

D. McQueen Campbell III, chair of the university’s governing board, resigned last week after reversing earlier denials that he had spoken with university officials about Ms. Easley’s employment. Mr. Campbell, a longtime associate of the Easleys, has said that her hiring was “free from any improper influence.”

The News & Observer’s coverage has raised questions about whether Mr. Campbell or Mr. Nielsen received preferential treatment for their roles in the hire. Both men have denied any misconduct.

This week Mr. Oblinger said Ms. Easley should step down from her job, which pays $170,000 per year. Her resignation would be in the best interest of North Carolina State, he said. The university, which is coping with a tight state budget, has announced that it would select a new chair of the board today. —Paul Fain