Halliburton Whistleblower Anthony Menendez Emphasizes Ethics
Anthony Menendez, best known as the accountant who took on Halliburton and won, spoke at Principia College last week as this year’s Ernie and Lucha Vogel Moral Courage Lecturer. Sharing his story with a full audience in Wanamaker Hall and with viewers watching on Facebook Live, Menendez described discovering questionable accounting practices at Halliburton, a global energy company, and realizing that its executives were knowingly violating Securities and Exchange Commission rules.
Ultimately, Menendez brought a claim against Halliburton for violating his rights under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, and despite having no formal legal training, he represented himself during the appeals process. After a nine-year legal battle, he prevailed in the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the results of his case have had a significant impact on that body of law. While acknowledging that it was a long, difficult, and lonely battle, Menendez persevered because he recognized the significance of the case as protection to future whistleblowers.
While on campus, Menendez visited business, political science, and education classes and dined with a group of students prior to his talk. Urging students to consider ethics in business and the importance of integrity in all aspects of life, he encouraged them to choose wisely while making career decisions. “Consider the tone of leadership, culture of the company or organization, and the character of individuals working most closely with you before accepting a position,” he said. “Your ethical standard and critical thinking are the most important tools you bring to the world. It is refreshing that these issues are discussed at many colleges, and during my stay at Principia I’ve found more engagement in these topics than on any other campus I’ve visited.”
Enjoy this short video clip about Mr. Menendez and his visit to Principia.