Corbett Education Advisor Quits Amid Accusations of Doing Little
By Tony Romeo
HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) -- Amid news stories suggesting he was a ghost employee, a top education advisor to Pennsylvania governor Tom Corbett has resigned.
Ron Tomalis had served as state education secretary, and after stepping down from that post he continued on as a "special advisor on higher education." to Gov. Tom Corbett.
Last month, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette published a story, based on records it obtained, questioning whether the time Tomalis spent on the job and his "ambiguous role" justified his nearly $140,000 salary.
But Pennsylvania Department of Education spokesman Tim Eller continues to insist Tomalis earned his pay.
"Inaccurate reporting that's been done on it is overshadowing the fact that he has completed assignments, has worked on projects, has brought them to fruition," Eller said today.
Apparently alluding to the allegations, Tomalis -– referring in his resignation letter to "recent events" –- says he believes it's in the best interests of the administration for him to step down while he pursues new opportunities.
