Donor links to Jeffrey Epstein spark campus reputation crisis

Colleges and universities across the US are facing growing scrutiny after new files revealed past links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, raising questions about fundraising practices and oversight.

Administrators are reviewing faculty contacts, donor relationships, and building names as public pressure mounts.

At Ohio State University, leaders are examining ties connected to a major donor who once gave Epstein power of attorney. Records also show a medical professor received consulting payments from him in the early 2000s, but said he never treated Epstein or his victims.

Documents also spotlight Bard College, where its president maintained fundraising contact with Epstein through 2017 and planned visits.

Columbia University reportedly admitted Epstein’s girlfriend to its dental school around the time he made donations.

Other institutions, Harvard University, Duke University, Yale University, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, are reviewing similar links.

Critics warn that even small links can spark public backlash, hurt funding, and cause lasting reputational damage.