Leon Botstein, the long-serving president of Bard College, has announced his retirement following a board vote to end his tenure after an independent review of his ties to Jeffrey Epstein. The decision, made on 30 April, was revealed through emails seen by the Guardian, and Botstein publicly framed his departure as a planned retirement on 1 May.
The board's vote has caused a rift among trustees, with one newly appointed member criticising the process as 'compromised'. Bard confirmed that board chair James Chambers and two others resigned, though the circumstances remain undisclosed. Professor Bruce Chilton noted 'legitimate worry' that decisions could be reversed if Botstein sought to extend his post.
An alum has called on the New York attorney general to investigate the board, alleging it prioritised Botstein's reputation over the college's interests. Bard declined to comment on the vote or the letter, reiterating its focus on the future.
The review by law firm WilmerHale found no illegal conduct but noted Botstein was 'not fully accurate' about his relationship with Epstein, who donated to Bard between 2011 and 2012. Botstein took a trip to Epstein's island in 2012 and failed to disclose fees from an Epstein entity. Botstein has denied being friends with Epstein or witnessing any inappropriate behaviour.
