The University of Michigan will receive a $3.5 million reimbursement from Munich Reinsurance America for its November 2020 $9.25 million settlement with eight survivors of former University Provost Martin Philbert’s sexual misconduct. The University had an agreement with Munich Reinsurance America that they could be reimbursed up to $4 million for the settlement.
Philbert was removed from his position in March 2020 following almost two months of paid administrative leave. The University hired the firm WilmerHale to investigate over 20 allegations of sexual misconduct brought against Philbert. In their July 2020 report, WilmerHale said they had found evidence of over 15 years of sexual misconduct, during which Philbert served as an assistant professor, an associate dean, School of Public Health Dean and University Provost. WilmerHale also alleged that multiple U-M officials, including former University President Mark Schlissel, were aware of allegations against Philbert but did not pursue them further.
Rising LSA senior Abigail Nighswonger, an LSA student government representative who helped form the LSA Student Government Sexual Misconduct Task Force, said she felt the University does not do enough to hold those in power accountable for their actions.
