Larry Summers Takes Leave from Harvard Amid Epstein Email Controversy

Thu Nov 20 2025 05:00:19 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Larry Summers has taken a leave of absence from Harvard amid growing scrutiny following the release of emails revealing his connection to Jeffrey Epstein. The decision affects his teaching commitments and position as director of the Mossavar-Rahmani Center.

Larry Summers, a prominent economist and former U.S. Treasury Secretary, has chosen to step away from his teaching role at Harvard University following controversy arising from emails linking him to Jeffrey Epstein. Summers emphasized the importance of stepping back amidst an ongoing review by the university, although the specifics of his future at Harvard remain uncertain. His ties to Epstein, who was a convicted sex offender, have sparked considerable outrage and scrutiny.

Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Larry Summers abruptly announced a leave of absence from Harvard University on Wednesday as the fallout continues from the revelation of emails demonstrating his friendship with the disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Summers, who previously served as Harvard's president, will step away from his teaching and administrative responsibilities while the university conducts a review related to the emails, as confirmed by his spokesperson.

In previous weeks, Summers had begun to distance himself from public engagements amid rising criticism, despite maintaining that he would continue to fulfill his teaching obligations. On Tuesday, however, he appeared before students and expressed regret about his past communications with Epstein. His spokesperson, Steven Goldberg, stated, "Mr. Summers has decided it’s in the best interest of the Center for him to go on leave from his role as Director as Harvard undertakes its review.”

The specific implications of Summers' decision remain unclear, as it is uncertain when or if he will return to his teaching position. Reports suggest the emails have raised significant concerns, particularly given Epstein's past conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor in 2008.

Summers is not the first figure to feel the repercussions of his association with Epstein; the revelations come in a context where multiple affiliations have been severed as institutions and organizations grapple with the ramifications of their ties to the notorious financier. Many continue to await further developments as the investigation progresses.