Jolin Ellison, Billionaire's Wife, Revealed as Major Michigan Football Donor and Influential Voice
The sixth wife of Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison has donated approximately $10 million to the University of Michigan's athletic department and allegedly played a role in the firing of former coach Sherrone Moore.
Jolin Ellison, the sixth wife of Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, has been identified as a significant donor to the University of Michigan's athletic department, contributing roughly $10 million in Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) funds since late 2023. The 35-year-old alumna has reportedly become an influential figure within the department, with outgoing athletic director Warde Manuel acknowledging the value of her input.
According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, Jolin Ellison and her 82-year-old husband funded the recruitment of top student athletes, including star quarterback Bryce Underwood. While their contribution is considerably less than the $500 million donated by Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross, Jolin's influence is notable given her husband's vast net worth and the expanding NIL market.
The report alleges that Jolin Ellison expressed strong opinions regarding the football program's performance. She reportedly told a colleague of former head coach Sherrone Moore that she threatened to withdraw funding if Moore remained the coach after a difficult game in November 2025. While Jolin Ellison denied making such a threat, she confirmed to the Journal that she informed Manuel that Moore should be dismissed if rumors of an inappropriate relationship with his personal assistant were true.
Moore was ultimately fired in December 2025 due to an "inappropriate relationship" with a staffer. He was later arrested and pleaded guilty to trespassing and malicious use of a telecommunications device. Moore's attorney did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Larry Ellison declined to comment through a spokesperson.
Jolin Ellison, who graduated from Michigan in 2012 with a degree in international studies, developed a passion for the Wolverines after attending her first football game in Ann Arbor. She stated to the Journal, "I support Michigan because I want the team to win—not because I expect anything in return," and pushed back against characterizations of her role beyond that of a dedicated fan.
Before their marriage was publicly announced, the Ellisons were publicly thanked in a 2024 news release by the school's NIL collective for their role in recruiting Underwood, which may have initially revealed Ellison's marriage. The couple has five children together. Larry Ellison has two adult children from a previous marriage: David, CEO of Paramount, and film producer Megan.
The University of Michigan's current head coach, Kyle Whittingham, has led the No. 19 Wolverines to a 2-0 record this season. They are scheduled to play UTEP this Saturday.