The review, initiated in February, will examine Botstein's interactions and relationship with Epstein. Jennifer Strodl, Bard's director of communications, said in a statement that Botstein fully supports the board's decision and will refrain from commenting further. A WilmerHale spokesperson confirmed the review is ongoing.
Botstein has made contradictory statements about his association with Epstein. He told staff at a meeting this week that he could not have known Epstein was reprehensible and predicted he would soon be cleared of any hint of impropriety. However, he has denied they were friends, despite years of correspondence and in-person meetings, including a 2012 trip to Epstein's island.
When you meet people like this, you think, who am I to question JE and his behavior when people at that level shake his hand?
In a January 4, 2015, email, Botstein expressed condolences that Epstein was facing renewed tabloid publicity and offered help, stating he valued their friendship. A Botstein spokesperson has said Botstein lacked detailed context when he sent that email, which he described as a courtesy note. Evidence suggests a close association persisted even after Epstein's criminal record was public.
Epstein was already a convicted criminal by the time Botstein first met him in 2011, having pleaded guilty to state charges of soliciting prostitution and soliciting a minor for prostitution. Botstein has said he cultivated the relationship as a way to raise money for Bard College. Svetlana Pozhidaeva, a former model who worked for Epstein, saw Botstein with Epstein together quite frequently, including on a trip to Epstein's island in December 2012.
They seemed to get along pretty well. Jeffrey Epstein looked at Leon as someone who was very knowledgeable, and had a lot of respect for him. He would know some of the most bizarre random historical facts and made the impression of a sophisticated intellectual.
She believed Botstein's reputation helped legitimize Epstein. It remains unknown whether Botstein was aware of Epstein's criminal activities beyond his public convictions during their interactions, and how Bard's board will respond to the review's findings and any potential implications for Botstein's presidency.
True friendship, in my view, is among the most honorable and rare of virtues. And I value our friendship, so if there is any way I can be of help, let me know.