Harvard Economist Lawrence Summers to Retire Amid Epstein Controversy

Lawrence Summers Announces Retirement

Lawrence H. Summers, a distinguished economist and former president of Harvard University, will conclude his teaching career at the end of this academic year, as confirmed by a university representative. This announcement follows the release of documents by the US Department of Justice that reveal a significant connection between Summers and Jeffrey Epstein, who had previously been convicted for offenses involving a minor. Since November, Summers has been on leave and will not resume his teaching duties prior to his exit from the university. Additionally, he has stepped down from his role as co-director of the Mossavar-Rahmani Center for Business and Government, as stated by the spokesperson.

In a statement, Harvard spokesperson Jason Newton indicated that Summers' resignation is linked to the university's ongoing examination of documents concerning Jeffrey Epstein that were recently made public by the government. Summers expressed that he faced a 'difficult decision' to retire, stating his gratitude for the opportunity to teach and collaborate with countless students and colleagues since he began his journey at Harvard as a graduate student five decades ago. As a retired professor and president emeritus, he looks forward to continuing his work in research, analysis, and commentary on various global economic matters.