Bard College confirmed President Leon Botstein will retire, ending a 51‑year tenure that saw the school rescued from near bankruptcy. Botstein, famed for aggressive fundraising, steered Bard through a period when many liberal‑arts colleges folded. His departure follows a Justice Department leak revealing extensive communications with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, prompting renewed scrutiny of his leadership and sparked debate among alumni.

The documents show Botstein exchanged messages and visited Epstein’s island after the financier’s 2013 conviction, even signing a 2013 note with “Miss you.” A WilmerHale review commissioned by the board found no illegal conduct but said the relationship “raised concerns” and that Botstein prioritized donations over reputational risk. Bard’s endowment now exceeds $1 billion, bolstered by a $500 million Soros pledge and $3 billion in total philanthropy.

Faculty senators urged the trustees to plan a leadership transition, and the board thanked Botstein for “countless accomplishments” before naming an interim chief and launching a national search. He will remain on campus as a professor and continue directing Bard’s music programs. The episode underscores how donor dependence can jeopardize governance at even financially resilient institutions.