GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Michigan State University’s interim president issued an apology Thursday for a series of emails accusing the first woman to go public with her accusations of Larry Nassar’s sexual assault of receiving “kickbacks” from her attorney.
John Engler made the apology in a written statement on the university’s website, saying he is “truly sorry” for speculatingRachael Denhollander received kickbacks and manipulated other abuse victims during the litigation process.
“My speculation about the lead plaintiff receiving kickbacks or referral fees hurt her deeply and for that I am truly sorry,” the statement reads. “She and the other survivors suffered greatly and they are entitled not to have their sincerity questioned, either individually or as a group. I apologize to her and her sister survivors.”
The statement goes on to say that emotions and tempers were running high after the April board of trustees meeting and, “It seemed as though we would never be able to reach a successful settlement. Nothing we were doing seemed to work.”
Engler said MSU administration is welcoming specific suggestions about actions to be taken to help prevent sexual assault and misconduct. Suggestions can be made online.