Yesterday, Orsini told Variety he was designated as hearing officer because of his experience in mediating cases.
During the NMC board of regents’ meeting on March 23, the members informed Fernandez’s lawyer about the hearing.
As of press time last night, Orsini, the board’s personnel committee chairman, said he had not received any communication regarding the attendance of Fernandez’s lawyer.
During the hearing, Fernandez has to answer questions regarding the investigation conducted by the Attorney General’s Office and NMC’s internal investigating team.
Orsini said the hearing is part of the due process afforded to Fernandez based on her contract.
After the hearing, the regents may either terminate or reinstate Fernandez, or they may call for yet another meeting.
Orsini said the board needs only four votes to approve any decision.
The board has seven members: chairwoman Janet King, Paz C. Younis, Elaine Orilla, Frank Rabauliman, Malua Peter, Charles Cepeda and Orsini.
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