To the Board of Trustees:
We are writing to invite you to imagine a new era of leadership for Bard College.
This request is made with seriousness, respect for Bard’s history, and commitment to its future. At a time when public trust in institutions is strained and democratic norms are under pressure, higher education must model accountability, transparency, and renewal. The Board of Trustees have an opportunity to guide the College forward with leadership that reflects the ethical clarity this era demands.
We find President Botstein’s latest email to the Bard community (dated February 10th, 2026) insufficient in justifying the acceptance of donations from Jeffrey Epstein on the College’s behalf. President Botstein has repeatedly characterized his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein as strictly professional and fundraising-related. However, recently published articles include characterizations of the relationship as a valued friendship. They also detail expressions of support during periods of renewed attention concerning allegations that Jeffrey Epstein engaged in sex trafficking of minors. It all reasonably raises questions about judgment that we believe cannot be reduced to technical distinctions about fundraising practice.
For years, alumni have urged the Board to articulate a succession plan for the presidency. Those requests have repeatedly been ignored. The present moment underscores why succession planning is a core responsibility of governance. President Botstein’s decades of service and transformative contributions to Bard are significant. However, institutional stewardship requires acknowledging when a leader’s continued tenure, regardless of past achievements, impedes the restoration of confidence.
Accordingly, we respectfully request that the Board of Trustees seek President Botstein’s immediate resignation, appoint interim leadership and initiate a transparent and inclusive process to select Bard College’s next president.
Sincerely,