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Bard College has initiated an independent investigation into its president, Leon Botstein, concerning his connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The college's Board of Trustees has enlisted the law firm WilmerHale to conduct a thorough review of communications and financial contributions linked to Epstein, as reported by Inside Higher Ed.
The investigation follows the release of emails and documents by the U.S. Department of Justice, which reveal extensive interactions between Botstein and Epstein. These documents include messages where Botstein expressed admiration for Epstein, despite Epstein's known criminal history. In 2013, Botstein wrote to Epstein, "I greatly cherish this new friendship and I have real admiration for how you go about doing things."
Botstein, who has led Bard College since 1975, has defended his interactions with Epstein, stating they were solely for soliciting donations for the college. He emphasized that Epstein was not a friend but a prospective donor. Botstein first connected with Epstein in 2011, after receiving an unsolicited $75,000 donation to Bard High School Early College. Over the next six years, Botstein pursued further contributions, resulting in additional donations, including computers for the school.
In a letter to the Bard community, Botstein described Epstein as "a truly evil man" and explained that his engagement with Epstein was part of his fundraising responsibilities. He also detailed a 2012 fundraising trip to Epstein's island, during which he fell ill and left early. This trip led to a $250,000 donation from billionaire Leon Black, facilitated by Epstein.
The Bard board has committed to transparency, promising to share the investigation's findings and implement recommendations regarding donor vetting and fundraising practices. The investigation comes amid broader scrutiny of Epstein's connections with various institutions and individuals, as highlighted by The Guardian.