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Jonathan Becker Takes the Helm at Bard

Episode 72: Jonathan Becker Takes the Helm at Bard

Bard's acting president Jonathan Becker talks succession, Botstein-Epstein fallout, admissions, board reforms, and why he'd rather demystify the presidency than embody it.

Show notes

In his first extended sit-down since taking over on July 1, Bard College Acting President Jonathan Becker joins Daily Catch editor Emily Sachar to address the college's most consequential leadership transition in more than 50 years. Becker discusses succeeding Leon Botstein, whose 51-year tenure ended after a WilmerHale-reviewed investigation into his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein; the presidential search process; strong fall admissions numbers; new board policies on gifts and conflicts of interest; and his own ambitions for the interim role. He also reflects on institutional identity versus individual leadership, Bard's global programs, and the college's long-standing commitment to student voting rights and civic engagement.

Produced by Emily Sachar, Walter Mullin, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud at the Radio Free Rhinecilff studio

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Guests

Jonathan Becker

Jonathan Becker

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