Liberty University Pays Jerry Falwell Jr. $15 Million Settlement After 2020 Sex Scandal

Liberty University has agreed to pay former president Jerry Falwell Jr. approximately $15 million as part of a settlement following his resignation in 2020 amid sex scandals that conflicted with the university's conservative evangelical values. The payment includes roughly $5.5 million to settle lawsuits and about $9.7 million from his retirement package, with Falwell also agreeing to pay the university $440,000 to resolve disputed expenses. The university characterized the settlement as a "global resolution agreement" to settle all outstanding legal and personal disputes, emphasizing its commitment to preserving Liberty's original mission. Falwell, who succeeded his father Jerry Falwell Sr., acknowledged mistakes made during his leadership and expressed satisfaction with the settlement outcome. His tenure was marked by significant growth of the university but ended amidst controversies, including his early endorsement of Donald Trump and revelations of personal misconduct. Both parties have taken responsibility for their roles in the disputes, and the settlement may bring closure to a contentious chapter in Liberty University's history.