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Victim Claims Bard President Aided Epstein's Rehabilitation Efforts

3/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Svetlana Pozhidaeva, a victim of Jeffrey Epstein, claims Bard College President Leon Botstein was part of a network that helped rehabilitate Epstein's image.
Pozhidaeva says she frequently saw Bard College President Leon Botstein with Epstein, including a December 2012 trip to Epstein's island.
Bard College's board is reviewing Botstein's connections to Epstein, including fundraising interactions.
The review may also examine Botstein's handling of sexual assault allegations during his Bard tenure.

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Story summary

Svetlana Pozhidaeva, a victim of Jeffrey Epstein, claims Bard College President Leon Botstein was part of a network that helped rehabilitate Epstein's image.
Pozhidaeva says she frequently saw Bard College President Leon Botstein with Epstein, including a December 2012 trip to Epstein's island.
Bard College's board is reviewing Botstein's connections to Epstein, including fundraising interactions.
The review may also examine Botstein's handling of sexual assault allegations during his Bard tenure.