Bard hires top law firm to investigate links between college president and Epstein
The Guardian World
by Stephanie KirchgaessnerFebruary 19, 2026
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Bard College has taken a significant step in addressing concerns over its long-time president’s connections to Jeffrey Epstein by hiring WilmerHale, a prestigious law firm, to conduct an independent investigation. The board of trustees announced on Thursday that WilmerHale will review the full scope of communications between Leon Botstein and Epstein, as well as any financial ties or related matters. This move comes following new revelations about Botstein’s dealings with Epstein, a convicted sex offender who has been at the center of multiple legal and ethical controversies.
The decision to involve an external law firm underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for impartiality. Wilmer
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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/19/2026