Michigan State University provided News 10 with a copy of a letter given to MSU Gymnastics coach Kathie Klages from Athletic Director Mark Hollis yesterday regarding her suspension.
The letter is as follows:
"I write to follow up on the meeting we had yesterday morning to discuss the University's review of allegations that members of the women's gymnastics team were discouraged from cooperating with the ongoing law enforcement investigation of Dr. Nasser. The allegations appear to relate primarily to a meeting held with the gymnastics team on
September 12, 2016. We understand the purpose of the meeting was to inform the student athletes of the breaking news story regarding Dr. Nassar, provide advice on responding to media inquiries, and offer any necessary support and resources. Interviews with studentathletes, coaching staff (including you), and other athletic department staff confirm that the focus of the meeting was on communications with the media, not law enforcement.
Those interviews also confirm that at the conclusion of the meeting you shared with the team your highly emotional sense of shock regarding the allegations against Dr. Nassar. That resulted in several student-athletes leaving the meeting feeling that they had received mixed messages. Others felt confused about who they could or should speak with about the situation. While I acknowledge you provided student-athletes with information about reporting to the Office of Institutional Equity, your passionate defense of Dr. Nassar created an emotionally charged environment for the team. That has not abated and my concerns led me to suspend you with pay.
You have since notified me that after thoughtful consideration of all the circumstances, you intend to retire from your coaching position effective immediately. You have also assured me that you will continue to cooperate"
