Michigan State University has suspended its head football coach, Mel Tucker, without pay after a report by USA Today revealed that he was accused of sexually harassing a rape survivor and activist last year. Tucker, who signed a 10-year, $95 million contract extension in February, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in college sports, denied any wrongdoing and said he was cooperating with the investigation.
Brenda Tracy’s claims
Brenda Tracy, a rape survivor and activist who has worked with several college football programs to raise awareness and prevent sexual violence, alleged that Tucker sexually harassed her during a phone call in September 2020. Tracy said she had a business relationship with Tucker, who invited her to speak to his team at Michigan State in March 2020. She said Tucker called her on Sept. 22, 2020, to discuss a potential partnership with her nonprofit organization, Set The Expectation, which aims to educate and empower student-athletes to combat sexual and physical violence.
According to Tracy, Tucker made inappropriate comments about her appearance, asked her personal questions about her sex life, and suggested that they should meet in person. Tracy said she felt uncomfortable and violated by Tucker’s behavior and ended the call. She said she reported the incident to Michigan State’s Title IX office the next day.
Michigan State’s response
Michigan State said it hired an outside law firm, Husch Blackwell, to conduct an independent investigation into Tracy’s allegations. The university said the investigation concluded in July and found no evidence of policy violations by Tucker. However, the university also said that Tucker will face a hearing before the Faculty Hearing Committee on Oct. 4, as part of the university’s grievance process. The hearing will determine whether Tucker violated the university’s relationship violence and sexual misconduct policy.
Michigan State’s interim president, Teresa K. Woodruff, said in a statement that the university is committed to creating a culture that is “welcoming, supportive and caring.” She said the university takes all allegations of sexual harassment seriously and follows a “fair and thorough” process to address them.
Michigan State’s athletic director, Alan Haller, said in a news conference on Sunday that Tucker’s suspension was a “conditional, interim measure” pending the outcome of the hearing. He said he was not aware of any other complaints against Tucker and expressed confidence in his leadership of the football program.
Tucker’s denial
Tucker, who has led Michigan State to a 3-0 start this season, issued a statement on Sunday denying Tracy’s allegations. He said he had a “professional and respectful” relationship with Tracy and that he never harassed or mistreated her. He said he was “shocked and saddened” by her claims and that he was cooperating fully with the investigation.
Tucker also said he was proud of his work with Tracy and other advocates to educate his players and staff about sexual violence prevention. He said he was committed to upholding the values and standards of Michigan State University.
