September 4, 2009

• News:  School Activities Director Misuses CC

  A Wausau, Wisconsin high school Activities Director has stepped down from his position after pressure from the school district's administrations for his misuse of the school's credit card. Mike Younggren resigned his position at the Wausau East High School after an investigation found him negligent in making numerous unauthorized personal transactions with the school district credit card. Younggren allegedly funded personal trips, dining, and other miscellaneous items outlined in three specific violations. The investigation was sparked when Wausau East Principal Brad Peck notified the Human Resources Director, Jeff Gress, of his concerns over Younggren's credit card use. On July 30th, school district officials placed Younggren on paid administrative leave during the ongoing investigation.

  After a meeting between Younggren and school district officials, Younggren has admitted to three credit card violations which included transactions covering two trips to Philadelphia for him and his wife. The trip was for personal reasons when his brother-in-law was killed and nephew seriously injured in a plane crash. Although Younggren did reimburse the school district for the $1,379 in unauthorized charges, he was told the credit card was not to be used for personal expenses. However, Younggren did not heed the warning. He continued to use the card for personal items and racked up another $1,371 in unauthorized charges.

  After being informed that he had to take his turn in approved travel, Younggren disregard the decision of the school district and travel to the National Athletic Director Association Conference in San Diego. The unauthorized credit card charges cost the Wausau East High School over $2,300. Although Younggren did attend the conference without authorization, the school district said they will not ask for reimbursement because he did attend for business purposes. They are; however, expecting to be reimbursed for the $1,371 of unauthorized personal charges. At this time, they will not be involving the police and are not planning to press any criminal charges.
  
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