Cash-strapped U.C. Stanislaus paid Disasta From Alaska $75K for 40-minute "speech." Cha-CHING!

Cash-strapped California public university paid $75,000 for Palin speech

By The Associated Press
Saturday, July 17th, 2010 -- 1:35 pm



Capping a long-running dispute, a cash-strapped California public university revealed Friday its foundation arm paid Sarah Palin $75,000 to give a 40-minute speech at a recent anniversary dinner for the campus.

The former vice presidential candidate's appearance drew intense criticism and scrutiny after officials refused to disclose the terms of her contract to speak at the black-tie gala that ultimately netted major donations for California State University, Stanislaus.

University spokeswoman Eve Hightower did not fully explain what prompted the sudden release of the former Alaska governor's speaking fee, which officials previously had maintained was confidential.

In a statement, campus administrators proclaimed the event to be the most successful fundraiser in the school's history, saying it raised more than $207,000 for scholarships — an unexplained increase from the previously released figure of $60,000.
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"During these difficult economic times, I am especially proud that we have received an unprecedented level of private support," campus President Ham Shirvani said. "Thanks to the foundation's generosity and fundraising, our 50th Anniversary Fundraising Gala was a huge success."

http://rawstory.com/rs/2010/0717/cashstrapped-california-public-university-paid-75000-palin-speech/