Sunday, December 22, 2024

Take a peek behind the curtain and test drive the NEW StateNews.com today!

First official made aware of Nassar allegations no longer employed by USA Gymnastics

May 18, 2018
Six-time Olympic medal winner Aly Raisman addresses Ex-MSU and USA Gymnastics Dr. Larry Nassar during her statement on the fourth day of Nassar's sentencing on Jan. 19, 2018 at the Ingham County Circuit Court in Lansing. (Nic Antaya | The State News)
Six-time Olympic medal winner Aly Raisman addresses Ex-MSU and USA Gymnastics Dr. Larry Nassar during her statement on the fourth day of Nassar's sentencing on Jan. 19, 2018 at the Ingham County Circuit Court in Lansing. (Nic Antaya | The State News)

Rhonda Faehn, who is believed to be the first official from USA Gymnastics to be made aware of the sexual abuse allegations against ex-MSU and USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar, is no longer employed by the sports governing body, officials announced today.

A day after reports showed Faehn was asked to resign by USA Gymnastics chief executive Kerry Perry, it has been officially announced Faehn will no longer be with the organization. 

"Rhonda Faehn is no longer with USA Gymnastics," Perry said in a statement. "This is a personnel matter that we will not discuss in detail."

Faehn, who was the senior vice president for women's programs, was first notified about "athlete concerns" against Nassar on June 17, 2015 when she interviewed Aly Raisman, McKayla Maroney and Maggie Nichols. This occurred after a coach overheard discussion about Nassar's "treatments," according to a report done by the IndyStar

"I reported my abuse to Rhonda Faehn and so did Maggie Nichols, and I don't know what she did or didn't do with that information, but I didn't get contacted by the FBI for over a year, and in that time 50 to 100 gymnasts were molested," Raisman told the IndyStar. 

Survivor attorney John Manly said in a tweet that Faehn failing to report the allegations against Nassar is "honestly vile."

"She kept the molests secret from other athletes & parents," Manly said via Twitter. "But for the courage of Maggie N., Aly and McKayla he would still be molesting these athletes."


Officials from USA Gymnastics and other Olympic organizations are set to attend two congressional hearings next week, as lawmakers are investigating their child protection practices.

“We recognize that change can be difficult, but we will not be deterred from making necessary and bold decisions to transform our organization," a statement by USA Gymnastics said. "At USA Gymnastics, we are focused every day on creating a highly empowered culture that puts our athletes first.

“Over the next few weeks, we will be communicating some positive changes that reinforce our desire to have our athletes train and compete at the highest level in an empowering and safe environment."

Support student media! Please consider donating to The State News and help fund the future of journalism.

Discussion

Share and discuss “First official made aware of Nassar allegations no longer employed by USA Gymnastics” on social media.