Despite the firing of head football coach Sherrone Moore for an “inappropriate relationship,” the staff member at the center of the scandal reportedly remains employed by the University of Michigan.
According to a report from TMZ, Paige Shiver, who served as Moore’s executive assistant, is still listed as an active employee in the university’s directory as of Friday.
The revelation has sparked questions regarding university policy, given that Moore was terminated “for cause” on Wednesday after an internal investigation uncovered evidence of the relationship. Prosecutors revealed during Moore’s arraignment Friday that the two had been involved in a relationship for “several years.”
The Power Dynamic Dilemma
While the disparity in consequences may appear contradictory to outsiders, it aligns with standard human resources policies at major institutions regarding relationships between supervisors and subordinates.
University policies typically place the burden of maintaining professional boundaries on the person in the position of power. As the head coach, Moore was Shiver’s direct superior. In such cases, the subordinate is often viewed as unable to truly consent due to the power imbalance, or simply not liable for the policy violation in the same way the supervisor is.
“This conduct constitutes a clear violation of University policy, and U-M maintains zero tolerance for such behavior,” Athletic Director Warde Manuel said in a statement regarding Moore’s firing. The statement notably focused on Coach Moore’s engagement in the relationship, rather than the staff member’s.
Current Status
Shiver has not publicly commented on her employment status or the scandal. She has reportedly been cooperating with university officials and provided the evidence that led to Moore’s dismissal earlier this week.
It remains unclear if Shiver will remain in her role within the football program under interim head coach Francis “Biff” Poggi or if she will be reassigned within the athletic department.
“There is no change in her employment status,” the school said.
Moore, meanwhile, was arraigned Friday on charges of home invasion and stalking after allegedly breaking into Shiver’s home and threatening self-harm following his termination. He was released on a $25,000 bond.
Flip the pages for photos of Ms. Shiver.
