Warde Manuel, the athletic director for the University of Michigan, will be stepping down from his role at the conclusion of the 2026 calendar year. This announcement was made by U-M President Domenico Grasso in an online video on Monday morning. Manuel, a former Wolverines defensive tackle, has been with the university since January 2016.
The decision follows an independent review into the culture, conduct, and procedures within the Athletics Department. The investigation was initiated in late 2025 by the law firm Jenner & Block. This review examined the circumstances surrounding the conduct of former Head Football Coach Sherrone Moore, who was dismissed in December 2025 due to an inappropriate relationship with a former staff member.
The firm’s review also looked into the broader culture of the department, identifying potential issues such as “interference, poor oversight, and failures of accountability by the highest levels of university leadership.” President Grasso emphasized that these areas require change. While Manuel was not directly implicated in any scandals during his tenure, the investigation did highlight “failures to quickly and effectively act on allegations of wrongdoing by Athletic Department employees.”
Investigation Findings and Recommendations
The independent review, which lasted approximately four months and cost the university $12 million, involved interviews with nearly 300 individuals. These individuals included employees, student-athletes, and other university associates. Investigators followed over 90 leads and reviewed more than 20,000 records. Despite the extensive review, no comprehensive investigative report was publicly released, with the university citing privacy concerns and the need to protect the willingness of witnesses to participate in future investigations.
The review found that while department leadership consistently communicated the importance of integrity and accountability, responses to potential misconduct were not always handled “consistently, promptly, or in accordance with University expectations.” It also noted that some employees and student-athletes were reluctant to report concerns. The firm recommended strengthening reporting processes, protecting individuals who raise concerns, and fostering a culture that encourages speaking up.
In response to the findings, the university plans to implement improvements in several key areas. These include enhancing compliance measures, reviewing human resources practices, and establishing consistent investigative policies and procedures. The university aims to strengthen the independence and visibility of its compliance function and may consider creating a C-Suite level officer for compliance.
Leadership and Accountability
The review specifically noted that Manuel failed “to quickly and effectively act on allegations of wrongdoing.” President Grasso acknowledged that failures in oversight extend beyond the athletics department to all university leaders. He expressed his “deepest respect for Warde and his countless contributions to Michigan,” but stressed the need for significant work to restore the standing of Michigan athletics.
Manuel has overseen four national championships during his time as athletic director, including national championship wins in men’s and women’s gymnastics, football, and men’s basketball. However, his tenure has also involved multiple controversies within the athletics department. The recent scrutiny intensified after the firing of Coach Moore, who later pleaded no contest to two misdemeanors, trespassing and malicious use of a telecommunications device, and was sentenced to 18 months of probation.
President Grasso has asked Manuel to remain in a special advisory role until the end of the calendar year to assist in implementing the reforms outlined by the university. Grasso also stated his intention to launch a national search for the next athletic director soon.
The university will also focus on strengthening processes for identifying, reporting, evaluating, escalating, and documenting concerns related to student-athlete health and safety, NCAA compliance, and human resources matters. This includes creating clear reporting expectations, defined investigative paths, and formal escalation procedures for issues involving senior leaders. Additionally, the university plans to expand access to confidential medical and mental health resources for student-athletes and implement mandatory coach training on related topics.
For leadership accountability, the University of Michigan will clearly define the responsibilities of sport administrators, enhance oversight across all athletics programs, and reinforce expectations regarding accountability and integrity. The university will also evaluate the creation of a dedicated sport administrator for the football program and increase regular reporting on compliance matters to the president and board. The university is considering the establishment of a University of Michigan UM Athletics Board to advise on departmental matters, similar to the UM Health Board. Manuel was first hired at U-M in January 2016.
Read Also
Source: clickondetroit.com
