Key Points
- Liberty University and Jerry Falwell Jr. have reached a comprehensive settlement, resolving all outstanding legal and personal disputes.
- Both parties have expressed regret over the prolonged litigation.
- Falwell is also now welcome to return to Campus
Nearly four years after his resignation as president of Liberty University, Jerry Falwell Jr. and the university’s Board of Trustees have announced a global resolution agreement, effectively ending all legal and personal disputes between the two parties. This comes after a protracted legal battle had cast a shadow over the university.
The agreement, which was announced jointly by Falwell and the Board of Trustees, is said to be rooted in a mutual commitment to preserving Liberty University’s founding mission of fostering Christ-centered education. While the specific terms were not disclosed, the settlement reportedly addresses Falwell’s retirement and severance package, as well as usage of Jerry Falwell Sr.‘s name, image, and likeness.
Jerry Falwell Sr., the founder of Liberty University, was a key figure in evangelical circles until his death in 2007. The younger Falwell, who succeeded his father as president, had filed a lawsuit against the university last year, alleging unauthorized use of his father’s legacy by the institution.
Both Falwell and the Board of Trustees expressed regret over the “lengthy and painful litigation process” and acknowledged their respective roles in the conflicts. Falwell, who stepped down from his position amid a scandal in 2020, apologized for the “errors in judgment and mistakes” made during his tenure. Similarly, the Board of Trustees offered an apology for unspecified “errors and mistakes” on their part.
Liberty University also announced that Falwell and his wife, who had previously been banned from campus, are now welcome to return. This gesture is seen as part of a broader effort to heal the divisions that have plagued the university since Falwell’s departure.
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