It's Official: Warde Manuel Announced as Michigan's Athletic Director

The University of Michigan has officially named Warde Manuel as its permanent athletic director.

Manuel was announced to the public on Friday morning during a press conference in Ann Arbor. He begins his duties on March 14.

University President Mark Schlissel spoke about the hire in a statement released to the public:

"Athletics plays a key role in the U-M community and beyond. It is a front door to the many activities and values of our community," says Schlissel. "Warde Manuel knows how to succeed in the classroom, compete on the field and positively contribute to the social fabric of a vibrant university."

Manuel has ties to the Wolverines, having played for Bo Schembechler from 1986-89 and serving as an associate athletic director in Ann Arbor.

Here is what he had to say in the release:

"I am honored to have been selected to serve Michigan as the Donald R. Shepherd Director of Athletics by President Schlissel," says Manuel. "I look forward to working with all the student-athletes, coaches, staff, faculty, students, donors and fans to continue the Michigan tradition of being 'Leaders and Best.'"

Manuel had been the University of Connecticut's athletic director since 2012. Prior to that, he held the same post at Buffalo.

He replaces Jim Hackett, who stepped in following the resignation of David Brandon. Hackett spearheaded the Jim Harbaugh hire, signed John Beilein and Kim Barnes-Arico to contract extensions and negotiated a then record-setting apparel contract with Nike.

Photo Credit: U-M Athletics