Leon Botstein, the longtime leader and musical figure at Bard College, has stepped down as the institution’s president amid scrutiny over his past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, but he continues to hold prominent roles within the college’s arts programs.

Botstein, who served as Bard’s president since 1975, retired from the position in June after documents from the Justice Department highlighted his longstanding friendship with Epstein. Despite retiring from the college’s top administrative post, Botstein remains deeply engaged in Bard’s musical initiatives. He continues to teach, serves as the artistic co-director of the Bard Music Festival, manages the Orchestra Now graduate program, and leads the American Symphony Orchestra, which serves as the resident ensemble for the Bard festival. The college is renovating a residence off-campus for Botstein, but he still resides in the official president’s home, a tribute to his decades of service.

The relationship between Botstein and Epstein, which reportedly included visits to Epstein’s private island and correspondence after Epstein’s conviction, has generated significant criticism. An independent investigation conducted by the law firm WilmerHale concluded that Botstein did not engage in any illegal conduct; however, the report raised concerns about the implications of his leadership amid these associations. Some staff at Bard’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts have openly called for the institution to sever Botstein’s ties to Bard’s music programs, expressing worries about the college prioritizing Botstein’s influence over the safety and dignity of students.

Botstein has defended his continued involvement, stating he has no intention of stepping away from his artistic and teaching roles. He has expressed regret over his past interactions with Epstein, describing the relationship as a difficult but necessary part of fundraising for arts organizations facing financial challenges. Supporters, including certain friends and trustees, have praised Botstein’s cultural contributions to Bard and his role in elevating the college’s artistic profile.

Meanwhile, Bard College is in the process of searching for a new president, with a replacement not expected until 2028. Interim President Jonathan Becker has focused on moving the institution forward and restoring stability, noting that Botstein’s campus presence is now limited. The college faces ongoing challenges as it tries to navigate the controversy surrounding Botstein while maintaining its commitment to the arts and its community.