Harvard Professor Steps Down After Epstein Links Surface

Harvard economist and former university president Larry Summers will step down from teaching by the end of this academic year. The decision follows new government documents that expose a close relationship between Summers and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, even after Epstein’s criminal record was publicly known.

• Leave of absence: Summers has been on leave since November and will not return to the classroom before his departure.
• Co‑directorship relinquished: He also gave up his role at the Mossavar‑Rahmani Center for Business and Government.
• Reason cited: The university cites an ongoing review of the released documents as the basis for his resignation.

The news first appeared in The Harvard Crimson, the student paper. In a statement, Summers described his choice as “the difficult decision” to retire and expressed gratitude toward the students and colleagues he has worked with for five decades. He said he would continue to study global economic issues in a research capacity.

The resignation marks the latest fallout from revelations about Summers’ relationship with Epstein, who died in 2019 while charged with sex trafficking. Although the connection had been known for years, congressional emails released in November showed a deeply personal bond that persisted after Epstein’s conviction.

Summers’ exit reflects the broader scrutiny universities face when faculty ties to controversial figures come to light. It also underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in academic institutions.