University of Central Arkansas President Lu Hardin says he will work to mend fences with faculty, students, staff, and the larger community.

At a meeting of the UCA board Wednesday, he acknowledged that missteps were made when he was awarded a $300,000 bonus in secret last spring.

Hardin, who has repaid the money, met briefly with the board in private after various members of the college community spoke favorably of him before the board. Each agreed Hardin was a strong, capable leader and a person of character, although Faculty Senate President Kurt Boniecki said some faculty were "outraged" by his actions and wanted to take a vote of confidence.

Board Chairman Randy Sims said he called the meeting so board members could hear from various members of the college community.

He said the closed session with Hardin was "friendly" and the board would meet again in September regarding Hardin's performance.



(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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