Calls Mount to Remove Epstein Associates' Names from University Buildings

Protests and petitions are gaining momentum at universities across the United States, including Ohio State and Harvard, calling for the removal of names linked to Jeffrey Epstein from campus buildings. This surge in activism follows increased scrutiny of Epstein’s network and the impact on institutions associated with him.

Ohio State University at the Center of Controversy

At Ohio State University, consistent protests have targeted billionaire Les Wexner, whose name appears on several campus buildings, including the Wexner Medical Center and the Les Wexner Football Complex. The core issue is Wexner’s well-documented association with the late Jeffrey Epstein.

Former Athletes Demand Accountability

A group of former Ohio State athletes, survivors of a sexual abuse scandal, argue that Wexner’s donations to the university are now “tainted” by his connection to Epstein. Their request for name removal states that continuing to honor Wexner “is to ignore the voices of survivors…who expect accountability.”

Harvard University Faces Similar Pressure

Similar demands are emerging at Harvard University, specifically targeting the Leslie H. Wexner Building and the Wexner-Sunshine Lobby. Students and faculty cite Wexner’s “strong ties to Epstein” and allege Epstein profited from Wexner, enabling his abusive behavior.

Other Buildings Under Scrutiny

The calls for removal extend beyond Wexner, encompassing names like Steve Tisch, Casey Wasserman, Glenn Dubin, and Howard Lutnick, all associated with Epstein. At Harvard, some also seek the removal of the Farkas name from Farkas Hall, due to Andrew Farkas’s longtime relationship and financial dealings with Epstein.

Universities Grapple with Legacy of Donors

This wave of protests reflects a broader backlash against figures with ties to Epstein, who cultivated a vast network within the arts, business, and academia. Universities are now facing difficult decisions regarding donor recognition and institutional values.

Haverford College and Tufts University Respond

Haverford College students recently voted to urge President Wendy Raymond to rename the Allison & Howard Lutnick Library. Tufts University has clarified that its Tisch Library is named for Preston Tisch, not Steve Tisch, and removed Steve Tisch’s handprints from its sports center.

Universities Review Procedures and Consider Legacy

Ohio State’s new president, Ravi Bellamkonda, has affirmed a “thorough, fair, and open” review process for name removal requests. Harvard has confirmed receipt of the Wexner-related request but has not provided further comment. The university previously changed the name of John Winthrop House due to connections to slavery.

A Parallel to the Sackler Family Controversy

The current situation echoes the controversy surrounding the Sackler family and the opioid crisis, as both involve institutions receiving substantial donations from individuals later linked to harmful activities. Some institutions removed the Sackler name, while Harvard chose not to, citing a “complex” legacy.

Donations and Ethical Considerations

Wexner and his wife have donated over $200 million to Ohio State and $42 million to Harvard. Anne Bergeron, a museum consultant, notes that universities are now facing a “moment of reckoning” and must avoid the appearance of a quid pro quo in building namings.

Survivor Voices Drive the Movement

Lauren Barnes, a Harvard Kennedy School student and survivor of sexual abuse, expressed the emotional toll of walking past buildings bearing Epstein-linked names. Protesters at Ohio State also voiced concerns about the association of the Wexner name with the medical center, given Epstein’s crimes.