Michigan Athletic Director Warde Manuel Steps Down After Review

Warde Manuel served as Michigan’s athletic director for four seasons, overseeing national titles in both football and men’s basketball. During his tenure, internal audits flagged cultural issues that prompted a comprehensive review of department practices.

The review concluded that leadership style and staff relations raised serious concerns, leading the board to recommend a leadership change. Manuel has now resigned, and an interim director will be appointed pending a full search.