REPORT FROM UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII – University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa Athletics Director Jim Donovan and Stan Sheriff Center Manager Rich Sheriff were placed on administrative leave this afternoon—pending an independent investigation—following yesterday’s news that the August 18 Stevie Wonder concert would not take place at the Stan Sheriff Center, UH Mānoa Chancellor Tom Apple announced today.
Said Apple, “We met with the Athletics staff prior to the press conference to inform them of the decision. The stability of our student athletes, coaches and staff is very important to us.” Apple added that the campus was undertaking a review of its policies and procedures.
University of Hawai‘i Vice President for External Affairs and University Relations Rockne Freitas has been named acting Athletics Director.
Said University of Hawai‘i President M.R.C. Greenwood, “We are fortunate that Rockne is able to step right into this role until the situation is resolved and Athletics will not miss a beat.” Greenwood also said 95 percent of tickets purchased for the concert have been refunded, predominantly credit card transactions. Other ticket holders who purchased their tickets from the Stan Sheriff box office should return there with identification for a full refund.
Greenwood added, “Chancellor Apple has taken strong and decisive action. He has the full support of the administration and the Board of Regents, and he is moving forward quickly to learn exactly what has happened.”