Statement of Interim Chancellor David Ward on the Chadima review

Note: Chadima’s attorney Tuesday night authorized release of the report mentioned in this statement, which accounts for the timing of the release of this material.

Here is the statement of Interim Chancellor David Ward regarding the completion and release of the report of Judge Patrick Fiedler’s independent review team on allegations of misconduct by senior associate athletic director John Chadima.

The full report is available here.

“Tonight, through a waiver granted by Mr. Chadima’s attorney, I am able to release the official report of the review team.

“After learning of an allegation of misconduct involving Mr. Chadima, the university placed him on administrative leave and he subsequently submitted his resignation. In addition, we initiated the independent review of the matter, the results of which are being made public today.

“The review team was charged with investigating the allegation, issues of abuse of authority, and the reporting process. They conducted their work during the past two weeks and made their report to me on Monday, Jan. 23. Pursuant to Wisconsin Public Records Law, Mr. Chadima was provided notice of our intent to release the report. Through his attorney, Mr. Chadima agreed to waive the waiting period that would have delayed the release of this document.

“Throughout this process, it was my intent to provide the highest level of transparency possible without compromising the integrity of the process. We care deeply for the welfare of the individual, who is an adult, and who brought this issue to our attention. We also appreciate the efforts of those who responded in accordance with our reporting processes and procedures.

“I thank the committee for their work over the past two weeks. We will consider the recommendations of the report and determine what future measures we need to take.”