The University of Michigan is under scrutiny regarding its handling of an investigation into its athletic department culture, following the firing of football coach Sherrone Moore in December. The university released a summary statement detailing findings from a seven-month investigation conducted by the law firm Jenner & Block. This summary has prompted questions about the institution’s commitment to transparency, particularly given previous statements by university president Domenico Grasso.
Grasso, who arrived in Ann Arbor in May 2025, has publicly used terms such as “accountability,” “deficiencies,” “weaknesses,” and “unacceptable” in relation to the athletic department. In a video message, he stated, “We have significant work ahead to restore Michigan athletics to its standing as a model program not only on the field, but also off the field.” He also previously wrote about the university’s vision, emphasizing “radical transparency, ethical leadership, and deep community engagement.”
Concerns over transparency
Despite the president’s emphasis on transparency, the university’s board of regents did not publicly discuss the investigative summary during their meeting. Grasso also did not directly address the media, instead releasing a video statement. Critics suggest that the university’s actions, including fighting state Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, contradict its stated commitment to openness.
The investigation’s outline indicated that while misconduct was not found to be widespread, “weaknesses in accountability, organizational structure, oversight, and reporting created conditions in which misconduct was not always addressed consistently, promptly, or in accordance with University expectations.” Grasso further noted “interference, poor oversight and failures of accountability of the highest levels of university leadership” as unacceptable.
Athletic director’s role and departure
Warde Manuel, the athletic director, is set to remain in his position until the end of the calendar year to assist with the transition. Grasso praised Manuel for academic and competitive achievements, despite the identified issues within the department. Manuel’s tenure has been marked by both significant athletic success, including national championships in football and basketball, and various controversies.
Manuel’s leadership has faced scrutiny, particularly concerning the management of Moore and an alleged inappropriate relationship with executive assistant Paige Shiver. Lawsuits have also emerged, including one from former assistant coach Chris Partridge alleging a cover-up in a sign-stealing scandal, implicating former president Santa Ono. Shiver is also suing the university for failing to provide relevant records.
The university has cited pending legal action and the need to protect attorney-client privileges as reasons for keeping the full report private. Grasso stated that the university plans to strengthen its compliance team, human resources, and background checks.
Looking ahead
The university faces a period of potential significant change, with the possibility of new hires for president, athletic director, football coach, and basketball coach within the next two years. The current interim president, Domenico Grasso, will remain until a new president is appointed. Kyle Whittingham was hired to help the football program, and Mike Boynton Jr. was retained to stabilize basketball after Dusty May departed for the NBA.
Manuel, who has been with the university for 11 years, has overseen a period of both unprecedented success and considerable turmoil. The university’s response to the investigation and its future leadership decisions will determine its path forward.
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Source: eu.freep.com
