Ex-Harvard President Larry Summers has stepped down from teaching at Harvard University following growing outrage over messages between him and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The university confirmed the move Wednesday evening, marking a turn in Summers’ decades-long association with the Ivy League college. As the university launches an investigation into his communications with the late disgraced financier, the academic community and critics have intensified their scrutiny over his past ties.
The decision by Summers to leave his teaching role and directorship at Harvard has drawn widespread attention, especially given the recent release of a trove of emails between him and Epstein. The emails, obtained by a House committee, reveal personal exchanges that have sparked public outrage. Included in these emails are details about their discussions, including romantic advice, which have further intensified the controversy around Summers’ relationship with Epstein.
Students at Harvard have also played a role in the growing backlash. A video released by students in Summers’ economics class shows him on stage acknowledging his shame over the connections with Epstein. The video has gone viral, adding to the pressure on Summers and his decision to step down. The university has stated that the investigation is part of its ongoing review of the situation, with students and faculty calling for transparency and accountability.
Summers, who served as the director of Harvard’s Center for the Environment from 2011, has faced mounting criticism over his past associations. His resignation from the board of OpenAI, which he had previously joined, reflects a broader trend of stepping away from public commitments. According to his spokesperson, Summers’ decision to leave his roles at Harvard is in the best interest of the institution during its review. His co-teachers will ensure the completion of the remaining class sessions, and he is not scheduled to teach next semester.
Summers’ career has been marked by both achievements and controversy. He was the Treasury Secretary under President Bill Clinton and directed the National Economic Council from 2009 to 2010. His stepping away from public life, including the resignation from the OpenAI board, underscores the impact of the Epstein controversy on his professional life. The situation has highlighted the broader implications of personal relationships in public life, particularly for individuals in positions of influence.