Arbitration panel rules for SIU in chancellor dispute

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- An arbitration panel has ruled in favor of Southern Illinois University in a dispute with a former chancellor.

The decision released late Tuesday means former chancellor Fernando Trevino isn't entitled to a payout of the estimated $680,000 in salary and benefits remaining on his contract.

Trevino's attorney, Shari Rhode, said she's disappointed. Rhode said the arbitration ruling is final and no appeal is possible.

Trevino served as chancellor of SIU's Carbondale campus from July 2007 until March 2008.

That's when SIU President Glenn Poshard placed Trevino on paid administrative leave, citing concerns with his job performance.

Trevino's contract required that the dispute be heard by a three-member arbitration panel. Tuesday's decision culminates a nearly 20-month long process.