Michigan State athletic director resigns in wake of Nassar scandal
The fallout from the Larry Nassar sex-abuse scandal continued Friday with Michigan State University Athletic Director stepping down.
Mark Hollis' resignation came days after the NCAA announced it's opened an investigation into MSU's handling of allegations against Nassar, who had his sports-medicine practice at the Big Ten school and was also the Olympics team doctor for USA Gymnastics.
It also follows the under-fire resignation of MSU President Lou Anna Simon, and comes as student protesters are demanding members of the Board of Trustees leave, as well.
"This was not an easy decision for my family, and you should not jump to any conclusions based on our decision — listen to facts," Hollis said in a statement.
"I am not running away from anything, I am running toward something. Comfort, compassion and understanding for the survivors and our community; togetherness, time and love for my family."
Hollis said he would cooperate with any investigations.
His departure is the latest shakeup from the investigation into Nassar, who has pleaded guilty to molesting 10 girls but is accused of sexually abusing more than 150 women and girls under the guise of medical treatments.
Criticism of Michigan State and USA Gymnastics mounted in the wake of an extraordinary sentencing hearing for Nassar where most of his accusers gave victim impact statements.
Among the other developments in the last two weeks:
Three leading members of the board of directors at USA Gymnastics stepped down.
The U.S. Olympic Committee called for the entire board of USA Gymnastics to resign and also launched an independent investigation.
USA Gymnastics severed its ties with the famed Karolyi Ranch, where some gymnasts say Nassar abused them.
MSU asked Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette to review its handling of the Nassar allegations, a probe that could theoretically lead to criminal charges.
