Dave Brandon resigns as Michigan AD, Jim Hackett named interim replacement

Dave Brandon is no longer Michigan's athletic director.

School president Mark Schlissel made the announcement at a news conference Friday, saying he didn’t know the main reason why Brandon left his post, but he’s on board with it.

“Dave feels that it would be in the best interest of our student-athletes, the athletic department and the university community if he moved on to other challenges,” Schlissel said, adding, “and allowed the important work of the department and university to continue without daily distractions. And I agree with this decision.

“I thank him for his long service and lifelong commitment to Michigan.”

Former Wolverines linebacker Jeff Hackett - who played for legendary coach Bo Schembechler alongside Brandon in the 1970’s - will be the interim replacement effective immediately.

Schlissel said Hackett’s appointment is to launch the process of moving the athletic department into a new direction that’s more attractive to the needs of students, fans, and alumni.

“To our alumni and others in the Michigan family, I want you to know that we are working to establish the right balance between academics, the competitiveness of our athletic programs,” Schlissel said. “To our students and student-athletes, I want you to know that the University of Michigan is behind you, always.

“To our fans, I want you to know that we value your support, your input, and your spirit.”

Hackett will not be a candidate for the permanent position, but he'll work alongside Schlissel to find a suitable, permanent athletic director.

In his first statement as Michigan AD, Hackett said he plans to take the necessary steps to mitigate any further idea the Michigan athletic department is plagued.

He said two of the most influential mentors in his life - Schembechler and former U.S. President Gerald Ford - would stand by the institution the way he does.

“Both of them would be quite certain that the future of Michigan is not in doubt,” he said. "This is a time for alumni to remember what has been special in their lives ... This university is here for students. 

"They are not just temporary residents of the big house, rather it's their house."