Epstein Ties Put Bard College’s Enduring Leader Under Scrutiny

Leon Botstein, Bard College’s long‑time president who rebuilt the school from debt to a sprawling, multi‑billion‑dollar enterprise, comes under renewed scrutiny after Justice Department documents reveal years of contact with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including fundraising discussions and efforts tied to young musicians. Botstein says the relationship was for fundraising, while critics warn the ties could harm Bard’s reputation; protests have been limited and the board has largely stood by him, with Botstein apologizing for his involvement as he marks decades at Bard.