A lack of leadership accountability, a weak organization and “barriers” for reporting issues all contributed to the University of Michigan athletic department’s problems over the years, including former head football coach Sherrone Moore’s inappropriate relationship with his direct subordinate, the review of the department found.
The university-authorized “culture review,” done by the Chicago-based law firm Jenner & Block, found misconduct was not “widespread” throughout the department. However, the misconduct that happened wasn’t always dealt with “consistently, promptly, or in accordance with University expectations,” the university said.
No personnel actions were taken as a result of the report, something President Domenico Grasso committed to doing when it was authorized in December. However, Athletic Director Warde Manuel, who’s ultimately charged with the oversight of the department, told Grasso he’d like to step down at the end of the year.
While Grasso accepted the resignation, he said in a video message to the Michigan community that Manuel would serve as “special adviser” to the president while the firm’s findings were implemented.
The “culture review” lasted for about four months and cost the university $12 million. Nearly 300 witnesses, including coaches, athletics staff, student athletes, university leaders and human resources personnel, were interviewed. The firm looked at over 20,000 documents during the review, the university said.
Despite the amount of material covered, the university said no comprehensive investigative report was conducted or written — and that the Board of Regents were briefed verbally on the findings and specifics of the report.
Investigation’s findings
While the firm’s “culture review” found that department leadership consistently communicated the importance of integrity, compliance and accountability, the department leadership needed to respond faster, more consistently and in line with “university expectations” when potential misconduct was raised.
However, the review found some employees and student-athletes were reluctant to report concerns. The firm recommended the athletic department strengthen reporting processes, protect individuals who raise concerns and reinforce a culture that “encourages speaking up.”
The review of the firing of Moore and his relationship with his assistant Paige Shiver found that no “current” employee had direct, contemporaneous evidence of the relationship. Regarding Manuel, the firm found he failed “to quickly and effectively act on allegations of wrongdoing.”
satwood@detroitnews.com
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Michigan probe finds ‘barriers,’ other issues hurt Athletics Department
