Last August, our new provost, Bernice Bass de Martinez, entered one of the most powerful offices on campus with promise. She has now vacated that post.

President Donald Gerth said he must remain quiet on the matter. Said Gerth, “I do not discuss personnel issues, and I assume if I did I?d be fired.” If that is the case, Gerth?s bosses in the California State University administration should look at the memorandum he sent on Oct. 8 to the entire campus concerning Bass de Martinez?s so-called leave of absence.

The memorandum, written by Gerth himself, painted a positive picture. According to Gerth, Bass de Martinez left the provost position at her request, to pursue her “longtime professional and personal interest” to modernize higher education in a small West African nation called Cote d?Ivoire. Bass de Martinez will apparently contribute to that program from the Sacramento area.

The memorandum continued pleasantly. “She has worked tirelessly for the institution on the campus, in the system and nationally. I want to thank her publicly for all that she has done.”

When The State Hornet spoke with Bass de Martinez, however, her statements wildly contradicted Gerth?s. She had no plan to leave her position, and has even sought legal advice. These actions indicate that her departure may not have been the love-fest that Gerth described. It is not clear which side is telling the truth. What is clear is that either Gerth or Bass de Martinez is lying.

Gerth has been predictably reticent since Bass de Martinez?s comments were released. Two Faculty Senate members recently drafted a resolution calling on Gerth to provide an explanation for her unusual departure. The resolution was shot down, but it is evident that some faculty members suspect foul play in the administration?s firing procedure. Gerth should address their concerns. Instead, he has left the University with legitimate questions.

Why was the favorable memorandum released if Gerth is not allowed to comment on personnel matters? Why does Bass de Martinez contradict Gerth?s claim that she willfully stepped down? Why is she still receiving full salary?

We?re waiting, President Gerth.