Brenda Tracy Sues Mat Ishbia and UWM Over Alleged Interference in MSU Investigation

Lawsuit accuses Ishbia and UWM of using 'donor-connected access' to influence probe into Mel Tucker's alleged harassment

Apr. 14, 2026 at 5:07pm

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An extreme close-up of a crumpled piece of paper with handwritten notes, lit by a harsh, direct flash against a dark background, conceptually representing the investigation into alleged sexual harassment.A lawsuit alleges a wealthy university donor used his influence to interfere with an investigation into sexual harassment claims.Today in Detroit

Brenda Tracy, who accused former Michigan State football coach Mel Tucker of sexual harassment, has filed a lawsuit against United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM) and its CEO Mat Ishbia. The lawsuit alleges that Ishbia and UWM executives used their influence as major donors to MSU to interfere with the university's investigation into Tucker's alleged behavior.

Why it matters

This lawsuit adds another layer of legal complexity to the ongoing saga surrounding Tucker's alleged misconduct and his subsequent firing from Michigan State. It also raises questions about the influence of wealthy donors on university investigations and decision-making.

The details

According to the lawsuit, UWM's former general counsel, David Zacks, received information via email about the investigation into Tucker from Tucker's lawyers. Tracy alleges that Ishbia and UWM used this information to 'influence the process from outside' and protect Michigan State's brand. The lawsuit names nine different allegations, including invasion of privacy and a violation of Michigan's Consumer Protection Act.

  • In 2023, Tracy accused Tucker of sexual harassment related to a December 2021 phone call.
  • Tucker was fired shortly after the USA TODAY story was released.
  • In January 2026, an Ingham County judge threw out Tracy's defamation lawsuit against Tucker.
  • Tucker sued MSU for wrongful termination, arguing he is owed his remaining salary, and that lawsuit is still pending.
  • This new lawsuit from Tracy was filed in April 2026.

The players

Brenda Tracy

A professional advocate for sexual assault victims who accused former Michigan State football coach Mel Tucker of sexual harassment.

Mel Tucker

The former Michigan State football coach who was fired after being accused of sexual harassment by Brenda Tracy.

Mat Ishbia

The CEO of United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM) and a longtime donor to Michigan State's athletic program.

United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM)

The mortgage company that is being sued by Brenda Tracy along with its CEO, Mat Ishbia.

David Zacks

The former general counsel of UWM who allegedly received information about the investigation into Mel Tucker from Tucker's lawyers.

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What they’re saying

“Ishbia and UWM had a direct corporate stake in communications sent to or through Zacks because the emails and related electronic records belonged to UWM and were created, received, maintained, or routed through UWM systems while Zacks was serving as UWM's General Counsel.”

— Brenda Tracy, Plaintiff

What’s next

The lawsuit seeks a jury trial and damages in excess of $25,000. UWM has called the lawsuit 'totally fabricated and unfounded'.

The takeaway

This case highlights the potential conflicts of interest that can arise when wealthy donors wield significant influence over university investigations and decision-making. It raises questions about the boundaries of donor involvement and the need for greater transparency and accountability in such matters.