Georgia college head to reimburse school for wedding costs

AUGUSTA, Ga. - Georgia Regents University President Ricardo Azziz plans to reimburse the school for costs of a state-owned bus that was used to carry guests of a private wedding at his home, school officials said.

School spokeswoman Christen Carter acknowledged the use of university resources, including the bus and GRU police officers for security at the wedding for Azziz's niece, Breeanna Beckhamn, and groom Brian Straessle.

Their wedding was held Saturday evening on the grounds of the Azziz residence, which is property of the University Board of Regents, The Augusta Chronicle reported.

"The Azziz family will reimburse the university for costs associated with shuttle rental and driver, and one marked police unit," Carter said in a statement.

The shuttle bus and the driver were on duty for about 11 hours Saturday at a rate of $36 per hour. Carter said the entire cost for university resources was $416, Carter said.

University policy allows the president to hold family events, such as weddings, at the Milledge Road home but forbids school-provided transportation.

"The university should not provide transportation to the President or his family for personal business, including transportation to and from schools, vacations, etc."

Upcoming Events