College will settle Nassar abuse claims for $500 million

Former gymnast Rachael Denhollander helped expose the Larry Nassar sexual abuse scandal by speaking out publicly about what he did to her and by filing a criminal complaint with police in 2016.

Since then, she has been a driving force in calling for changes at Michigan State University, USA Gymnastics and the U.S. Olympic Committee, and has advocated for bills related to the case that are pending in the Michigan Legislature.

Denhollander released this statement Wednesday after Michigan State announced it had agreed to pay $500 million to more than 300 women and girls who said they were sexually assaulted by Nassar:

“I am very grateful to have reached a settlement with MSU that reflects the incredible damage which took place on MSU’s campus. I am thankful that the litigation phase is over so that my sisters and I can move forward.