University of Notre Dame President The Rev. John Jenkins issued an apology after he was criticized for failing to wear a mask while attending a public event.

Father Jenkins was seen maskless at a Rose Garden ceremony where Notre Dame’s Amy Coney Barrett was nominated for the U.S. Supreme Court. He also shook hands with people after the ceremony.

Jenkins said he regretted his “error in judgement” and failed to lead by example at a time when he has asked everyone at Notre Dame to do so. He added: “I especially regret my mistake in light of the sacrifices made on a daily basis by many, particularly our students, in adjusting their lives to observe our health protocols.”