In a revealing investigation, the North Carolina State Auditor has uncovered significant discrepancies in the distribution of student aid at North Carolina A&T State University, where millions of dollars were allocated improperly.
According to a report from the auditor’s office, approximately $5 million in aid was allocated over eight years without adhering to standard merit or need-based criteria. Some of these awards were linked to personal connections with university officials, bypassing regular financial aid protocols.
This financial aid originally sourced from student fees was distributed outside the usual processes, raising concerns about transparency and governance.
Chancellor James Martin addressed the issue in a letter to the campus community, revealing that the problem was initially identified in 2025 through an internal review, which was followed by a request for an independent state audit.
The university has since ceased this practice and implemented personnel changes while strengthening its financial aid oversight.
State Auditor Dave Boliek characterized the situation as “gross misconduct,” and his office has forwarded the case to the State Bureau of Investigation for further examination.
