By Breaking Editor 
Students and faculty at Bard College are increasingly vocal about their concerns regarding President Leon Botstein’s long-standing ties to registered sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Recent revelations of their interactions have reignited criticism of Botstein’s leadership and handling of sexual misconduct on campus, prompting calls for accountability.
Bard College, a liberal arts college in Hudson, New York, is also linked to social causes. On its webpage, it notes:” Bard College seeks to inspire curiosity, a love of learning, idealism, and a commitment to the link between higher education and civic participation”. So, it makes sense for it to outwardly react to news of an Epstein link in its leadership so decisively.
In fact, just recently in March 21, 2026, students held a building over the Israeli genocide in Palestine. Specifically, the students were able to divest from engagements linking back to the state of Israel, an already heavily US taxpayer subsidized country with an artifical economy.
Truth Emerges
Reports surfaced detailing communications between Botstein and Epstein, dating back to after Epstein’s 2008 conviction. It has been revealed that Botstein invited Epstein to various college events between 2013 and 2016, reportedly ensuring security measures due to Epstein’s criminal background. These connections have raised eyebrows among students and faculty who feel that Botstein has contributed to a culture of harassment on the campus.
The Bard College Faculty Senate is urging the institution to establish a fund equivalent to Epstein’s financial contributions to support initiatives combatting sexual violence, a measure that reflects growing dissatisfaction with leadership. This proposal comes amidst a broader student campaign dubbed “Take Back Bard,” aimed at transforming the college culture that many perceive as enabling misconduct.
Additionally, student activists assert that Botstein’s affiliation with Epstein may have helped rehabilitate Epstein’s image more broadly, leading to increased scrutiny of Botstein’s role in the institution’s governance. Critics, including victims of Epstein, have suggested that his entwined relationships with influential figures like Botstein have compounded the trauma of survivors.
As pressure intensifies for Botstein to address these allegations and for the college to confront its historical governance issues, the future leadership of Bard College hangs in the balance.