Michigan State University President Lou Anna Simon has apologized to survivors of sex assaults by sports doctor Larry Nassar.
Simon made the apology during a Michigan State Board of Trustees meeting Friday. The university faces complaints and lawsuits that claim they ignored warnings that Nassar was abusing girls and women who were his patients. Nassar has pleaded guilty to multiple counts of sexual assault.
Many, including the Lansing State Journal editorial board, have been calling for Simon's resignation. However, MSU trustees continue to voice their support for the president, which was reaffirmed during Friday's meeting.
In addition to her apology, Simon praised the victims who came forward.
“Without your voices and your courage, Nassar wouldn’t be behind bars," she said to victims. "You have our deepest thanks, and appreciation.”
Protesters crowded into the trustees meeting. They want the university to release details of an internal review of how MSU officials handled the complaints. The Board of Trustees say there is no cover-up by MSU higher-ups.
The trustees will create a $10 million fund for counseling and assistance for survivors of sexual assaults by Nassar.
