Larry Summers, former Harvard University President and prominent economist, has resigned from the OpenAI board and stepped back from public duties after the House released emails revealing years of personal correspondence with Jeffrey Epstein. Summers, who had long been a respected academic and public figure, addressed his past during a class lecture, expressing public regret over his communications with the disgraced financier.
In a TikTok video captured by a student, Summers began his lecture by acknowledging his past actions, citing ‘shame’ over his interactions with Epstein while emphasizing the importance of continuing his teaching obligations. The moment, widely shared online, has sparked renewed public scrutiny over his role in the Epstein case and his continued association with Harvard.
Summers’ resignation from the OpenAI board came amid growing pressure for accountability, following the release of emails that span from 2013 to 2019. The messages, obtained by the House committee, show Summers referring to Epstein as his ‘wingman,’ a term he used to describe their professional and personal relationship. Epstein, a convicted sex offender, had also supported Summers during his marriage and after his conviction, according to the documents.
Harvard University announced an internal review of its faculty members’ connections to Epstein, citing the release of the documents. The review includes faculty such as Alan M. Dershowitz and Elisa F. New, who is married to Summers. While Harvard officials have released a statement expressing concern, the university has yet to provide further details on potential actions.
Public reactions have been largely negative, with many calling for Summers’ removal from his position at Harvard. Online commenters voiced outrage, with some criticizing the university for tolerating a figure associated with Epstein. Others questioned how Summers could still hold a position at an institution that values academic integrity.
Harvard and Summers did not immediately respond to requests for additional comment, leaving the broader implications of the scandal to continue to unfold. As the university’s internal review progresses, the case highlights ongoing concerns about ethical oversight and accountability in academic institutions.