College Campuses Are in Upheaval Over Faculty Ties to Epstein

Wired

by Miles Klee

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

College campuses across the U.S. are facing intense scrutiny after the release of millions of DOJ emails detailing Jeffrey Epstein’s deep ties to academia. These documents reveal how the late financier influenced prominent universities and academics through monetary donations and luxury gifts, sparking demands for accountability from students and alumni. While merely appearing in the files doesn’t imply criminality, the fallout has caused widespread outrage, particularly at institutions like the School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York. At SVA, emails surfaced showing a former museum director and current MFA program chair, David A. Ross, corresponding with Epstein about controversial art exhibitions involving underage models. Students responded by circulating flyers denouncing the ties, leading to campus discussions about broader financial ethics in academia. Despite efforts by school administration to downplay the controversy, Ross ultimately resigned, citing his past connections with Epstein as a museum director in the 1990s. The situation highlights deeper concerns about the influence of wealthy donors in higher education and the art world, which many see as perpetuating unethical practices. Critics argue that Epstein’s reach likely extends far beyond what has been revealed so far, raising questions about how universities handle relationships with high-profile benefactors. This issue resonates particularly with readers interested in tech and science, where funding from private donors often shapes research priorities and academic culture. Ultimately, the controversy underscores the need for greater transparency in academia regarding financial ties and donor influence. As students and faculty demand answers, institutions face pressure to audit their relationships with high-profile donors like Epstein, ensuring that ethical standards are upheld. This story serves as a cautionary tale about the potential consequences of unchecked connections between wealth and academia.

Verticals

techscience

Originally published on Wired on 2/24/2026