Radical transparency? Michigan president should take his own advice - Detroit Free Press
The University of Michigan is facing scrutiny regarding its athletic department, with university president Domenico Grasso acknowledging significant work ahead to restore the program’s standing. This comes after a seven-month investigation by the law firm Jenner & Block into the department’s culture. The investigation was initiated following the firing of football coach Sherrone Moore in December.
Grasso released a video statement addressing the findings, using terms such as “accountability,” “deficiencies,” “weaknesses,” and “unacceptable.” He stated that the university has “significant work ahead to restore Michigan athletics to its standing as a model program not only on the field, but also off the field.” The university’s summary of the investigation noted 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.”
Leadership and Accountability Concerns
The report also identified “interference, poor oversight and failures of accountability of the highest levels of university leadership.” Despite these findings, Warde Manuel, the current athletic director, will remain in his position until the end of the calendar year to assist with the transition. Grasso expressed “respect” for Manuel, even as the department faced various controversies under his leadership. Manuel, who is 58, is expected to help implement changes to address the identified deficiencies.
The decision to retain Manuel, even temporarily, has raised questions, particularly given the university’s stated commitment to “radical transparency.” Critics point to Grasso’s previous writings on the university’s vision, where he emphasized “radical transparency, ethical leadership, and deep community engagement.” However, the university chose not to release the full findings of the investigation publicly, citing pending legal action and the need to protect attorney-client privileges.
Ongoing Legal and Reputational Challenges
The university’s handling of the investigation and its findings has drawn comparisons to other institutions that also tend to withhold information. The university has a history of fighting the state’s FOIA law, which has led to accusations of contempt for public information sharing. This approach has contributed to a perception of hypocrisy, especially given Grasso’s public statements on transparency.
Several legal actions are currently underway that touch upon the athletic department’s issues. Former assistant coach Chris Partridge is alleging a cover-up in the Connor Stalions illegal scouting and sign-stealing scandal, implicating former president Santa Ono. Additionally, Paige Shiver, Moore’s former administrative assistant, is suing the university for failing to provide relevant records related to her relationship with Moore.
The controversies surrounding the athletic department include Moore’s inappropriate relationship with Shiver and the sign-stealing apparatus used by the football program. While Manuel stated he investigated the relationship and received denials, his lack of persistence in the matter has been criticized. The university aims to strengthen its compliance team, human resources, and background checks as part of its efforts to address the identified weaknesses.
Manuel’s tenure has been marked by both significant success, including national championships in football and basketball, and considerable turmoil. He has been credited with the program’s financial stability and competitive achievements. However, the accumulation of scandals led to him becoming a polarizing figure. Manuel’s departure at the end of the year is seen by some as a necessary step for the university to achieve a clean break and chart a new path forward.
The university is also facing potential changes in key leadership roles over the next two years, including the president, athletic director, football coach, and basketball coach. Kyle Whittingham, 67, was an interim hire for football, and Mike Boynton Jr. was retained to stabilize basketball after Dusty May left for the NBA. Manuel himself released a statement and promised he would eventually discuss the situation publicly.
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Source: eu.freep.com
