A Special Investigations Unit Report - The Higher Education Coordinating Board
August 2013
Report Number 13-045
Overall Conclusion
The State Auditor's Office's Special Investigations Unit (SIU) investigated allegations that the Higher Education Coordinating Board (Coordinating Board) received a forged Hinson-Hazlewood College Access Loan (CAL) program payment guaranty and promissory note.
The results of the SIU's investigation led to the Public Integrity Unit of the Travis County District Attorney's Office obtaining an indictment for Olivia B. Rodriguez on June 26, 2013. The indictment charged Ms. Rodriguez with one count of forgery, which is a third-degree felony. Third-degree felonies carry a penalty of not more than ten years or fewer than two years in a state jail and a fine not to exceed $10,000.
The CAL program is funded through the Hinson-Hazlewood student loan program and is administered by the Coordinating Board. Students apply for CAL program loans through the financial aid office of the higher education institution they plan to attend.