Story perspectives

Bard College Launches Review of President Botstein's Epstein Ties

2/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

Bard College has launched an independent review of President Leon Botstein's ties to Jeffrey Epstein after newly released emails from the Department of Justice.
The board of trustees hired WilmerHale to investigate Botstein's relationship with Epstein.
Botstein says his interactions with Epstein were solely for fundraising.
The review will assess communications and financial contributions.
It will inform donor-vetting and conflicts-of-interest policies.

History

Historical Context

In 2008, Jeffrey Epstein secured a controversial plea deal, serving only 13 months for sex offenses, which drew widespread criticism and raised questions about institutional accountability. Bard College's review of President Leon Botstein's connections to Epstein highlights ongoing scrutiny of donor relationships in academia, potentially leading to stricter donor-vetting policies and redefining conflict-of-interest standards in higher education.

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Story summary

Bard College has launched an independent review of President Leon Botstein's ties to Jeffrey Epstein after newly released emails from the Department of Justice.
The board of trustees hired WilmerHale to investigate Botstein's relationship with Epstein.
Botstein says his interactions with Epstein were solely for fundraising.
The review will assess communications and financial contributions.
It will inform donor-vetting and conflicts-of-interest policies.

1 / 2