MSU Trustee Mitch Lyons has become the first official from the university to call for the resignation of President Lou Anna K. Simon amid the Larry Nassar sexual abuse scandal.

Mitch Lyons (Photo Courtesy MSU)
Mitch Lyons (Photo Courtesy MSU)
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Lyons, a Republican from the Grand Rapids area, issued a statement Saturday night that was in strong contrast with that of the MSU Board Of Trustees' Friday meeting that ended with a backing of Simon.

"This board has prided itself on presenting itself as a unifed board over the years, even when we had disagreements," Lyons said in his statement. "However, on this issue I strongly disagree and, while I am only one voice on this board, I can't in good conscience remain silent on this issue."

Lyons played football at Michigan State from the late '80s to early '90s under fellow current Trustee George Perles. Lyons was charged with misdemeanor assault and battery for a late-December incident in Jackson County.

He also said that his calling for Simon was not politically motivated as he is not seeking reelection to the MSU Board Of Trustees.

"Lastly, before people question whether I'm doing this for political gain given that my term ends the end of this year, I have no intention of running for re-election in November of 2018. My only hope is that everyone impacted by this tragedy can begin healing with God's grace. God bless the survivors."

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