Reevaluating Northwestern's Handling of Hazing Allegations and Coach Suspension

Northwestern President Michael Schill admits he may have made an error in the two-week suspension imposed on football coach Pat Fitzgerald following an investigation into hazing incidents on the team. Schill acknowledged that he focused too much on what the report concluded Fitzgerald didn't know, rather than what he should have known. The investigation found no direct evidence that Fitzgerald was aware of the hazing, but Schill believes he failed to uphold the school's commitment to student welfare. Schill will reassess the sanctions and discuss with university leaders to determine a new penalty for Fitzgerald, who signed a 10-year extension in 2021.