UCAT president resigns in wake of audit

Utah College of Applied Technology President Robert O. Brems has resigned in the wake of an audit that suggested financial irregularities at the school's Utah County campus.

The president, who has been on paid administrative leave since findings of a state audit suggested he was involved in improper financial transactions, said in a letter Wednesday addressed to the state's commissioner of higher education that a resignation would hopefully resolve any disruptions caused by the audit.

"Because of my allegiance to UCAT, and to alleviate further disruption, I believe it is the best interest of the college for me to step down at this time," Brems stated.

Brems will remain on administrative leave until Oct. 31.

Jared A. Haines will remain as acting interim president of the multi-campus applied technology college network until the state Board of Regents fill the position.

The audit, which examined several transactions at the Mountainland Applied Technology College in Orem, was released in August.

State Auditor Auston Johnson said at the time that it would hopefully spur further action by the system of higher education.

The Board of Regents authorized an additional review and plan to release its findings next week.

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