Michigan State AD Hollis steps down, retires after Nassar scandal
Michigan State athletic director Mark Hollis has stepped down and will retire.
"Let me be clear, in retirement, I will fully cooperate (with the ongoing investigation into Michigan State by the NCAA and Michigan attorney general office)," Hollis said, according to Chris Solari of the Detroit Free Press.
There's been no announcement from Michigan State regarding an interim athletic director, Solari added. Hollis served in the role since Jan. 1, 2008, and his last day will be Wednesday.
The resignation and investigation come in the wake of the sexual assault scandal surrounding ex-USA gymnastics doctor and former Michigan State faculty member Larry Nassar.
Nassar was sentenced Wednesday to up to 175 years in prison for sexual abuse.
Asked why he's stepping down, Hollis responded, "Because I care," according to Hollis.
"I know it's the right time to let people heal. I know this is the right time for me, for (my wife) Nancy. I have three children, they're incredible kids. I don't like to see them in pain, either," said Hollis, according to Graham Couch of the Lansing State Journal.
Hollis said he doesn't believe he's ever met Nassar.