Carleton president called to testify in bribery trial

Carleton University Roseann O’Reilly Runte is being called upon to testify in a corruption trial in Virginia. The case involves allegations surrounding state legislator Phil Hamilton and his relationship with Old Dominion University in Norfolk. In June 2007, while still holding his seat in the legislature, Hamilton was hired to head Old Dominion’s teacher training centre. Prior to being named to the position, however, Hamilton had secured $500,000 in state funding for the centre. Prosecutor’s are arguing that other candidates for the post were not seriously considered. Runte, who was president of Old Dominion from 2001 to 2008, has maintained she had no direct knowledge of Hamilton’s appointment. The defence hopes that if Runte will testify she will confirm that no bribery took place. The trial is scheduled to start May 2.