Leon Botstein, who has served as president of Bard College for five decades, announced his retirement on Friday. The decision follows revelations about his extensive relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Key Takeaways
Bard College President Leon Botstein announced his retirement following revelations about his extensive ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. An independent review found no illegal activity but criticized Botstein's leadership for minimizing his relationship with Epstein.
- Leon Botstein retiring after 50 years as Bard College president
- Independent review found no illegal acts but criticized leadership decisions regarding Epstein ties
- Botstein had multiple meetings, visits to Epstein's properties, and accepted undisclosed consulting fees
- Epstein directed $150,000 to Botstein in 2016 which was donated to the college
- Bard College will redirect funds associated with Epstein to support survivors of sexual harm
The announcement comes months after it was disclosed that Botstein's connection to Epstein was deeper than previously known. An independent review by WilmerHale found no illegal activity but concluded that Botstein made decisions reflecting poorly on his leadership, particularly in minimizing and being inaccurate about the nature of their relationship.
According to The Guardian, the investigation revealed Botstein had approximately 25 visits to Epstein's townhouse, spent two days at Little St James Island, hosted Epstein at Bard College multiple times, and accepted undisclosed consulting fees from an Epstein entity in 2016. The review also noted that Botstein referred to his 'friendship' with Epstein in emails.
In a statement provided to The Associated Press, Botstein did not mention Epstein by name but referenced the ongoing investigation, stating it was prudent to wait for its completion before announcing his retirement. He plans to remain on Bard's faculty as a teacher and musician.
Documents released by the U.S. Justice Department this year showed that Botstein and Epstein met multiple times, with Epstein sometimes arriving at Bard by helicopter. The president had invited Epstein to graduation ceremonies in 2013 and suggested they meet for an opera performance. Additionally, Botstein reached out to Epstein weeks after new details of his criminal prosecution were reported, expressing hope that he was holding up well.
Epstein directed $150,000 to Botstein in 2016, which the president has said he donated to the college. Bard's trustees have decided to redirect funds associated with Epstein to organizations supporting survivors of sexual harm. The Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees acknowledged Botstein's decades of service but noted that recent concerns were serious and deeply felt.
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