I've never understood

the reason for this event a year ago.

High-profile priest on the inside and on the outside of life at Ave Maria

"A year after his firing and re-hiring by Ave Maria University, the Rev. Joseph Fessio remains happy, but acknowledges differences with school administration"

It's not even a traditionist/liberal dispute. Fr. Fessio started one of the most orthodox (meaning faithful to the Magisterium) Catholic publishing companies (which publishes some of the best Catholic books available!) in the world, and Ave Maria University is one of the most orthodox (ibid.) Catholic educational institutions in the world. I wonder if it has to do with two strong personalities clashing in some way? Who knows?