Rutgers Names Adviser for Independent Review of Men's Basketball Program

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. –  Rutgers University announced today the appointment of Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP to conduct the planned independent review of the circumstances surrounding inappropriate behavior within the men’s basketball program and the university’s handling of the matter.

The review, first announced on April 8, will begin immediately and examine the university’s process for the handling of issues concerning former head basketball coach Mike Rice, who was dismissed April 3. As a result of the review, Cahill Gordon will also make recommendations on any actions that should be taken by the Rutgers administration and the university’s governing bodies. The results of the review will be made public.

“This review is necessary if we are to learn from this experience. I fully support the independent review and the engagement of Cahill Gordon and look forward to the results of the examination,” Rutgers University President Robert L. Barchi said. “It is incumbent upon my administration and the Board of Governors to understand fully how this transpired, to learn from it and to take such actions necessary to ensure that our athletics program meets our expectations for integrity as well as success.”

Ralph Izzo, chair of the university Board of Governors, said, “Cahill Gordon is a highly respected law firm with the experience needed to carry out this independent review.” No timetable was set for conclusion of the review. But Izzo said he anticipates “thorough but speedy” action. “Rutgers must have closure so our community can heal and move forward,” he said.

Established in 1766, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is America’s eighth-oldest institution of higher learning and one of the nation’s premier public research universities. Serving nearly 60,000 students on campuses in Camden, Newark and New Brunswick, Rutgers is one of only two New Jersey institutions represented in the prestigious Association of American Universities.