East Lansing-based Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine Dean William Strampel, DO, resigned Thursday morning for "medical reasons." His resignation comes amid widespread criticism of his handling of the victims who came forward against Larry Nassar, DO, a former MSU physician accused of sexual misconduct by more than 130 women, according to the Lansing State Journal.
An MSU spokesperson confirmed Dr. Strampel's resignation to the Lansing State Journal. The spokesperson said Dr. Strampel will go on immediate medical leave, but will remain a faculty member at the university.
Dr. Strampel, who has served as dean of the medical school since 2002, was largely criticized for his handling of an internal investigation into Dr. Nassar following accusations of sexual assault by a female patient.
The internal investigation found Dr. Nassar had not violated university policy, and determined the female patient did not understand the "nuanced difference" between a standard osteopathic procedure and sexual assault, according to university records obtained by the Lansing State Journal.
Dr. Strampel regularly voiced his support for Dr. Nassar during the investigation and allegedly told the physician he could resume his clinical work before the investigation concluded. It is unclear if Dr. Nassar did so, according to the report.
University emails obtained by the Lansing State Journal also indicate two versions of the final report were issued. The version sent to the female patient who initiated the complaint reportedly had information withheld from the conclusion section, the report states.
To read the full Lansing State Journal report, click here.