Harvard University reopened a review of faculty ties to Jeffrey Epstein after the release of previously private emails that show continued communication between the convicted sex offender and former Harvard president Larry Summers. Summers has stepped back from public commitments and resigned from the OpenAI board as institutions and media organizations sever ties. Harvard said it will evaluate information in the newly released documents and determine what actions are warranted. Summers’ retreat includes leaving media roles and leadership posts amid mounting public and congressional scrutiny over his relationship with Epstein. The renewed probe and Summers’ exits have ripple effects across universities and corporate boards, prompting other institutions to reassess governance, gift‑acceptance procedures and conflicts of interest tied to high‑profile donors. Trustees and general counsels should expect additional document requests and potential litigation as lawmakers and watchdogs review institutional responses to donor relationships. Campus leaders must communicate investigative processes clearly and act swiftly to protect students, research integrity and institutional reputation while legal reviews proceed.