The essentials
Michigan's athletic director stepping down after investigation found departmental oversight failures and multiple coaching misconduct cases.
Warde Manuel, Michigan's athletic director since 2016, has agreed to step down at the end of 2026 following a $12 million independent investigation into the athletic department. The Jenner & Block investigation identified failures in oversight, and multiple coaches were dismissed for misconduct during Manuel's tenure, including former football coach Sherrone Moore, who was fired for an inappropriate relationship. Moore was later accused of assaulting Paige Shiver after his termination.
The investigation's findings prompted the leadership change. Michigan released a summary of the Jenner & Block report detailing systemic shortcomings in how the department managed personnel conduct and accountability.
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Leadership departure signals consequences for departmental failures
Manuel's exit represents institutional accountability following the independent investigation's findings of oversight failures. Multiple dismissals for misconduct during his tenure underscore systemic issues requiring leadership change. The timeline—from 2016 appointment to 2026 departure—reflects the extended period these problems persisted under his direction.
Investigation and findings drive organizational restructuring
The $12 million Jenner & Block investigation identified specific failures in athletic department oversight, triggering institutional response. The investigation's summary release and resulting coaching dismissals demonstrate how external review mechanisms can expose internal accountability gaps. Manuel's departure concludes this investigative process.