As the president of Western University asked for forgiveness, many in the packed crowd turned their backs on Dr. Amit Chakma.

"I stand before you profoundly humbled and deeply sorry for the events of the past two weeks...Most sincere apologies to you for the disruption the issue of my compensation has caused for our community. Friends, I am deeply sorry to have let you down."

Chakma was speaking at a meeting of the Western Senate on Friday, and protests by a number of student and union groups was expected.

There has been significant blowback following news that Chakma was paid about $967,000 in 2014 - nearly double his normal salary - because he received money in lieu of taking a contractual sabbatical.

He has since returned the money, and promised to forgo another payment during his second term, but the issue remains top of mind for many on campus.

About 120 protesters are estimated to have marched to the meeting Friday with signs that read "We need transparency" and "Stop corporate greed."

Some are calling for Chakma's resignation, as well as that of the chair of the schools Board of Governors.

Chakma later addressed a packed room saying, "Friends, again, I ask for your forgiveness."

It is the first time Chakma has spoken publicly since his salary was unveiled in Ontario's annual 'Sunshine List.'

On Thursday, Western News - published by the university's communications department - issued a release that included the first statements from Chakma, but he has not spoken to any other media outlet.

His full speech to the Senate was also published by Western News on Friday, and is available here.

In it Chakma, asked for forgiveness, re-affirmed that he is returning the nearly half-a-million dollar payment, and will not accept a second payment.

He also committed to re-connecting with students and faculty, saying "Together, we will have the opportunity to review and reflect upon our priorities - a chance for me to listen to you, and to speak with you about your concerns and our collective aspirations."

Finally, Chakma says the issues surround his contract show more attention must be paid to internal matters and that there is a need to improve communication between the Senate, Board of Governors and the wider school community.

The Western Senate will meet again next Friday to debate the motion of non-confidence in Chakma's leadership.