News12 New York
Where to Watch
Download the App
Local News
Crime
Weather
beWell
The East End
Crime Files
FIFA World Cup

Bard College hires law firm to investigate communications between president and Epstein

Recent emails disclosed by the U.S. Justice Department show numerous communications between the two spanning several years.

Dave Wolf

Feb 27, 2026, 1:31 PM

Updated

Share:

Top Stories

Bard College’s Board of Trustees has hired an outside law firm to investigate communications between President Leon Botstein and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Recent emails disclosed by the U.S. Justice Department show numerous communications between the two spanning several years.

In a statement, the trustees of the Dutchess County-based college said the independent review will examine the full scope of those communications, including financial contributions connected to Epstein and any related matters. The investigation is expected to last several months.

Botstein has said Epstein was not his friend but a prospective donor, and expressed regret over his connection to Epstein and his deepest sympathies to Epstein’s victims.

The fallout has led the college to postpone its spring fundraising gala, which was originally scheduled for next month.

Top Stories

App StoreGoogle Play Store

info

Newsletter

Send Photos/Videos

Contact

About Us

News Team

News 12 New York

follow us

Twitter

Facebook

Instagram

more resources

Optimum Corporate

Optimum Service

Advertise on News 12

Careers

Content Removal Policy

© 2026 N12N, LLC

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

Ad Choices