PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Temple University has stepped away from the largest gift in its history, after learning the donor’s company is under federal investigation.
The school has cut ties with Christopher Barnett, who made headlines last October when he gave $55 million to Temple. It was the largest gift the university had ever received, and Temple named its college of public health after Barnett.
The decision came after word surfaced that Barnett’s ABA Centers of America, which provides services to children with autism, has been under investigation for money laundering and wire fraud.
“The university learned about these allegations in recent days and believes the actions outlined here are necessary at this time,” said Temple President John Fry in a statement on Tuesday.
According to Fry, Barnett — who strenuously denied the allegations — has also been recovering from a “life-threatening medical event.” He said Barnett, a Temple alumnus, has also resigned from the University’s board of trustees.
Fry added that the decision to terminate the $55 million commitment was a mutual decision. “We are grateful that Mr. Barnett has expressed a desire to avoid any negative impact on Temple and, in keeping with such desire, has cooperated with the university through this difficult process,” he said.
According to Fry, none of the payments to Temple had yet been made.
Christopher Barnett’s gift was the largest in university’s history
Christopher Barnett’s gift was the largest in university’s history
