Board of Regents Meeting Skips Athletics Investigation After Livestream Glitches

What Happened at the July Meeting

On Thursday, July 16, Michigan’s Board of Regents convened in Traverse City, but the athletic department investigation was nowhere to be seen by the public. President Domenico Grasso opened remarks focusing on broader leadership changes, including the departure of General Counsel Tim Lynch, without addressing the turmoil in sports. A livestream that was plagued by audio and video issues added to the opacity.

The YouTube feed cut out just after 30 minutes, prompting a “The live stream is either down or has ended” message from the university’s site. A spokesperson later said “athletics were not discussed at all during the meeting” and that all agenda items were approved. The lack of transparency has left many fans and insiders questioning what truly unfolded behind closed doors.

The Investigation Remains in the Shadows

A Chicago‑based law firm, Jenner & Block, is overseeing a probe worth nearly $12 million that examines former football coach Sherrone Moore’s affair with Paige Shiver and the broader athletic‑department culture. Early findings have brought trouble for Michigan, yet no written report has been released; only an oral briefing has been given to university leaders, reportedly to avoid Freedom of Information Act requests. The university says the documents are privileged and confidential, protected by attorney‑client privilege.

The findings have sparked discussions about a possible buyout for Athletic Director Warde Manuel, even though President Grasso has publicly expressed continued support for him. Manuel has defended his decade‑long tenure, emphasizing his work on behalf of student‑athletes, fans, donors, and the university’s academic mission. Nonetheless, speculation continues about whether the investigation will lead to leadership changes.

Key Figures and Their Statements

President Grasso’s message was one of continuity: “Change can be disruptive and unsettling, yet our university has never been defined by an individual leader or a singular program … we are defined by our mission, impact and commitment to the public good.” He did not acknowledge the athletic department’s woes when he spoke.

When pressed about the lack of discussion, a Michigan spokesperson stated that the meeting was strictly administrative, and that all agenda items were approved. The university also indicated it will “determine the appropriate time and manner to communicate the results of the athletics investigation and any actions taken in response to its findings in the near future.”

Separately, former linebackers coach Chris Partridge filed a wrongful termination suit in March, later amending it to include allegations of an “advanced scouting scheme” that extended beyond former staff member Connor Stalions and involved members of the football coaching staff. Partridge claims former President Santa Ono directed key personnel, including Manuel, to take no notes or records of meetings with the law firm.

Legal Turmoil Surrounding the Athletic Department

Paige Shiver has also sued the university, accusing it of hiding public records in five separate requests. The lawsuit highlights a pattern of opacity that coincides with the ongoing Jenner & Block investigation. Meanwhile, former coach Sherrone Moore was arrested in December 2025 on felony charges related to his relationship with Shiver; he later pleaded to lesser charges and received 18 months of probation.

The fallout from the investigation continues to ripple through the program. Fans and analysts are watching closely to see whether the university will release any written findings or if the culture of secrecy will persist. Any decisive action—or lack thereof—could shape the future of Michigan’s athletic leadership and its public perception.

Photo Gallery: Michigan Fans in Indianapolis

What This Means for Michigan’s Future

The Board of Regents’ decision to keep the athletics probe out of the public eye, coupled with a glitch‑ridden livestream, has created a vacuum of information that fuels speculation and concern. If Michigan’s leadership opts for greater transparency, it may restore confidence among alumni, donors, and the broader community.

Conversely, continued secrecy could erode trust and potentially impact recruiting, enrollment, and alumni giving. Stakeholders will be watching for any future statements from President Grasso, Athletic Director Manuel, and the Regents as the investigation progresses and any administrative actions are taken.