AD Wren Baker Is In Serious Fight With WVU President Michael Benson Due To Disagreement Over Athletic Funding Priorities
West Virginia University is currently witnessing a high-stakes clash behind closed doors, as Athletic Director Wren Baker finds himself locked in a serious dispute with University President Michael Benson. The tension centers around the future direction of WVU’s athletic department and the university’s broader financial priorities—a fight that insiders say threatens to shake the institution to its core.
At the heart of the conflict is the allocation of funds for WVU’s athletic programs. Wren Baker, appointed AD in 2021, has aggressively pursued an ambitious agenda to elevate WVU’s athletic standing on the national stage. His vision includes expanding facilities, recruiting top-tier coaching talent, and increasing investment in sports science and athlete wellness programs. Baker argues these initiatives are essential to maintaining competitiveness in the fiercely contested Big 12 Conference and securing lucrative television contracts.
However, President Michael Benson, who took office in 2021 with a mandate to stabilize university finances and prioritize academic excellence, sees Baker’s aggressive spending plans as reckless and misaligned with the university’s overall mission. Benson is reportedly concerned that Baker’s proposed $150 million facility upgrade—aimed at renovating the Mountaineer Field and constructing a new multi-sport complex—would siphon critical resources away from academic programs struggling under budget cuts.
The clash has reportedly escalated since late 2024 when Baker presented a detailed five-year strategic plan emphasizing athletic department self-sufficiency through expanded fundraising and increased game-day revenue. Benson, however, dismissed the plan, citing the university’s mounting debt and the pressing need for funding in research and student support services.
According to multiple sources close to the administration, the dispute has become personal. Baker believes Benson lacks a true understanding of the athletic department’s needs and accuses the president of undervaluing the intangible benefits of successful sports programs—including community engagement, alumni loyalty, and student recruitment. Meanwhile, Benson views Baker’s approach as short-sighted and overly focused on athletics at the expense of academic integrity.
The conflict recently spilled into the public eye when an anonymous leak to local media hinted at an internal power struggle. The story, widely circulated across West Virginia sports forums and news outlets, suggests that Benson is considering replacing Baker unless the AD scales back his spending proposals. Meanwhile, Baker is said to be exploring alliances with influential alumni and boosters who support his vision for WVU athletics.
Faculty and student groups have also weighed in, with some expressing concern over the administration’s handling of the disagreement. “It’s troubling to see such a divide between athletics and academics,” said a prominent faculty member who requested anonymity. “The university needs a unified strategy, not a fight that divides its community.”
Despite the tension, both parties maintain a public stance of cooperation. However, insiders predict that unless a compromise is reached soon, the fallout could lead to significant changes in WVU’s leadership structure.
As WVU prepares for its next football season, all eyes will be on whether Baker and Benson can find common ground or if this serious fight will redefine the university’s priorities—and its future.
