Nassar Fallout: MSU Athletic Director Retires Amid Criticism

LANSING, MI – Michigan State University athletic director Mark Hollis on Friday announced his retirement from the university. It comes just two days after ex-Michigan State sports medicine doctor Larry Nassar was sentenced to up to 175 years in prison for molesting young women and girls during routine examinations.

"My heart breaks thinking about the incomprehensible pain all of them and their families have experienced," Hollis write. "Along with many, I was brought to tears as I listened to their statements. There simply aren’t the right words to express our sympathy."

Hollis' announcement to retire was made a day after university President Lou Anna Simon resigned. Both Hollis and Simon have been targets of criticism by victims who say university officials, including coaches, trainers and other staff, neglected and ignored the claims of women who were subjected to Nassar's abuse.

Hollis acknowledged that he first heard of Nassar's assaults in September 2016.

"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 wrote. "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."

In his statement, Hollis said that Michigan State "has been attacked by evil, an individual who broke trust and so much more." He credited the bravery of the "courageous survivors" who testified during Nassar's sentencing hearing.

Hollis said that he will cooperate with investigations that have been launched by Michigan State Attorney General's office and the NCAA. He has been athletic director at the university since 2008.

Photo: In this Sept. 24, 2016, file photo, Michigan State University athletics director Mark Hollis, right, and president Lou Anna Simon watch the action during an NCAA college football game//Associated Press