Michigan president breaks silence after Sherrone Moore's dismissal and issues heartfelt appeal to students

The University of Michigan is navigating a moment of reckoning following the abrupt dismissal of head football coach Sherrone Moore, a decision that has rippled across campus and beyond athletics.

As the fallout continues, university president Domenico Grasso reached out directly to students, framing the situation as a test of the institution's values rather than a purely sports-related controversy.

Moore was fired with cause on Wednesday after a university investigation concluded there was "credible evidence" that he had "engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member."

The finding prompted immediate action by university leadership. Since his termination, Moore has also been arrested in connection with an alleged assault and is currently being held at the Washtenaw County Jail.

Grasso addressed the situation in a written message to students on Thursday titled Moving Forward with Integrity. In the letter, he outlined both the reasoning behind the university's decision and the principles guiding it.

"Earlier this week, the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics dismissed head football coach Sherrone Moore with cause for violating University policy by engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member," Grasso wrote. "When the findings of a University investigation into Coach Moore's behavior were presented on Wednesday, we immediately terminated his employment.

"There is absolutely no tolerance for this conduct at the University of Michigan. None."

Rather than softening the message, Grasso emphasized that the response was deliberate and necessary, even as he acknowledged the emotional impact the situation has had on the broader campus community.

A breach of trust and a call to protect campus culture

In the letter, Grasso described Moore's actions as a fundamental breakdown in trust, one that extended beyond the football program.

"[It] is painful for many in our community, first and foremost, the individuals directly involved in this situation," the letter continued. "Yet our swift and decisive action reflects the University's staunch commitment to a campus culture of respect, integrity and accountability."

He also stressed that the university's work is not finished. While Moore's employment has ended, the internal review will continue to ensure that all relevant facts are fully understood.

"All of the facts here must be known, so the University's investigation will continue," Grasso wrote. "Our community has worked diligently in recent years to strengthen a safe and respectful environment for all.

"We must remain steadfast with those efforts. Each of us shares an obligation to uphold our values.

"If you become aware of any violation of U-M policies, I strongly encourage you to report it through the University's compliance hotline."