Leon Botstein resigns from Bard College amid Epstein allegations

Leon Botstein has resigned from all positions at Bard College following allegations regarding his past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The resignation follows scrutiny from the House Judiciary Committee, which released a letter alleging that Botstein “likely enabled and possibly even participated in Epstein’s abuse while serving as Bard’s President.”

House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin highlighted a May 2014 email sent from Botstein’s official account to Epstein. In the correspondence, Botstein reportedly asked whether a young woman Epstein was allegedly trafficking was “for me, or are you keeping her for yourself.” Raskin stated, “It is hard to construct any kind of innocent explanation for Botstein’s question and the surrounding events.”

In addition to the Epstein-related inquiries, the committee received whistleblower reports suggesting Botstein may have used his influence to interfere in Title IX proceedings and protect sexual predators on the college faculty.

Botstein has denied all allegations of criminal involvement or knowledge of Epstein’s activities. He stated his resignation was intended to protect Bard College from distractions and maintain the institution’s integrity. Bard College has announced a comprehensive review of the claims and is cooperating with congressional investigators.