Brenda Tracy Sues Mat Ishbia Over Mel Tucker Investigation

Brenda Tracy, a sexual assault prevention advocate, has filed a lawsuit against Mat Ishbia, a prominent donor to Michigan State University (MSU), and his company, United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM). The lawsuit alleges that Ishbia interfered with the university's investigation into claims that former MSU football coach Mel Tucker sexually harassed Tracy. The investigation ultimately led to Tucker's dismissal. Filed in Oakland County Circuit Court on March 23, the lawsuit claims that David Zacks, UWM's former general counsel, was privy to communications regarding Tracy's complaint without her knowledge, suggesting that Ishbia used his influence to monitor the investigation for "reputation management."

WILX 10Donor illegally sought to keep tabs on Tucker investigation, Brenda Tracy saysDetroit Free Press

The lawsuit asserts that Ishbia and UWM had a vested interest in the investigation's outcome, as Ishbia was the largest donor to MSU at the time. Tracy contends that she was assured of confidentiality during the investigation, which was compromised when Zacks received emails related to her complaint. The suit claims that Ishbia's involvement was not incidental but rather a deliberate attempt to protect his interests and investments tied to Tucker and the MSU football program. Tracy is seeking a jury trial and damages exceeding $25,000.

WILX 10Donor illegally sought to keep tabs on Tucker investigation, Brenda Tracy saysDetroit Free Press

A spokesperson for UWM dismissed the lawsuit as "totally fabricated and unfounded," arguing that Tracy's claims are an attempt to capitalize on previous legal failures against Tucker and MSU. The spokesperson emphasized that communications involving Zacks were personal and unrelated to Ishbia or UWM. Ishbia, who has a long-standing connection to MSU, contributed $14 million to the university, which facilitated Tucker's lucrative contract extension in 2021.

Detroit Free PressWILX 10Donor illegally sought to keep tabs on Tucker investigation, Brenda Tracy says

Critics of Ishbia's involvement argue that his influence raises serious ethical concerns regarding donor-driven interference in university investigations. Tracy's attorney, Karen Truszkowski, stated, "We’re just looking for answers... There had to be a reason, and what was it?" This sentiment reflects broader concerns about the integrity of institutional processes when significant financial interests are at stake.

Donor illegally sought to keep tabs on Tucker investigation, Brenda Tracy says

The lawsuit highlights discrepancies regarding the extent of Zacks' involvement and the nature of communications he received. While Tracy claims that Zacks' participation compromised the investigation's confidentiality, UWM maintains that the communications were personal and unrelated to the investigation. Additionally, the investigation into whether Tracy's name was leaked during the probe did not include interviews with Zacks or Ishbia, raising questions about the thoroughness of that inquiry.

Donor illegally sought to keep tabs on Tucker investigation, Brenda Tracy says

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case will likely draw attention to the intersection of donor influence and institutional accountability in higher education. The outcome may have implications not only for Tracy and Ishbia but also for MSU's governance and policies regarding sexual harassment investigations.

Donor illegally sought to keep tabs on Tucker investigation, Brenda Tracy says