Michigan announced that athletic director Warde Manuel will depart his position at the end of the calendar year, according to a statement released by the university on Monday. The decision follows the completion of an internal investigation conducted by the law firm Jenner & Block into the culture and operations of the athletics department.
The investigation identified three primary areas requiring improvement: leadership accountability, organizational structure, and reporting culture. Regarding Manuel’s specific role, the review found that the department experienced “failures to quickly and effectively act on allegations of wrongdoing by Athletic Department employees.” The university has not made the full findings of the $12 million investigation public, releasing only a summary overview.
Manuel, who has served as Michigan’s athletics director since 2016, released a statement acknowledging his “very proud” feelings about accomplishments during his 11-year tenure while indicating he would provide additional comments at a later time. The investigation was initiated amid institutional upheaval stemming from the Sherrone Moore scandal, in which Moore was terminated after evidence emerged of an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. The staff member, Paige Shiver, has subsequently filed a lawsuit against the university claiming violations of public records law and seeking disclosure of investigation findings.
Manuel’s tenure encompassed considerable athletic success, including national championships in multiple sports and football’s return to prominence. However, his leadership also coincided with significant controversies, including NCAA investigations, the Connor Stalions sign-stealing operation, and coaching transitions. The period preceding his departure saw mounting scrutiny regarding decision-making in personnel matters and program direction, establishing what observers have characterized as a paradoxical legacy combining unprecedented athletic achievement with persistent institutional turbulence.