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N.D. (NewsDakota.com) The former president of Valley City State University has filed a complaint against the North Dakota Board of Higher Education. KFGO radio reports that Ellen Chaffee filed the complaint with the Higher Learning Commission, which handles accreditation for colleges and universities.

Chaffee alleges that the Board of Higher Education is violating the Higher Learning Commission’s policies by cutting itself off from direct contact with the state’s universities and presidents. Chaffee says the sole source of information now comes from Chancellor Hamid Shirvani.

Chaffee says dissatisfaction with board behavior was a factor to 5 presidents resigning or retiring earlier than planned in a 2 year span. Higher Education board president Duaine Espegaard says Chaffee, “Has to do what she’s got to do.” But he declined further comment until he’s had time to review the complaint.

Shirvani has come under fire from some legislators, students and others for his management style. Higher Education Board President Duaine Espegard says he needs to review the complaint before commenting.