Grace in reporting

I am concerned about the approach the reporters are using in covering the expense issue at Western New Mexico University because of the unnecessary comments made about the president’s wife, Valerie Plame. It appears to me her picture and name are being used to get attention or readership, when the issue is about the president and expense procedures. This is the second time in Valerie’s life where she has been unfairly maligned by the media for doing nothing wrong or out of process or unethical. Both times, it seems to be the attacks on her husbands include attacking her. I have known Valerie for over 15 years and President Joseph Shepard for about the same time. I also am familiar with the expenses and stipends that are given to presidents of colleges and universities, as well as their spouses.

It is a common custom to entertain in a president’s home (which they do in Silver City quite often) and to have the ability to replace worn furniture or furnish the home, which belongs to the university, as well as pay for food and liquor for entertainment. It is common for the spouses to travel with the presidents, also with expenses paid. Some universities even provide a stipend for the spouse because they are accompanying their spouse on many university-related events and trips. Using words like “profiting handsomely” in reference to Valerie as a result of marrying the president is immature and not true. I also understand there is no “expense account” but instead a credit card that is used for pre-approved expenditures for entertaining at the house and approved again after the purchase. Controls are in place. Valerie is one of the most honest, straightforward people I know and a true patriot. Let’s have some grace in reporting this issue.

Catherine Allen Santa Fe