Harvard University has initiated an inquiry into the connection between former President Larry Summers and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following the release of documents by Congress. The investigation comes as Summers recently departed from OpenAI, the artificial intelligence research company.

The congressional documents reportedly detail interactions between Summers and Epstein, raising concerns about Summers’s past associations. While the specifics of the Harvard investigation remain undisclosed, the university stated it is committed to thoroughly reviewing the matter and addressing any potential ethical concerns. The inquiry aims to determine the nature and extent of Summers’s relationship with Epstein.

Larry Summers served as Harvard’s president from 2001 to 2006. His departure from OpenAI earlier this month was announced independently of the Harvard investigation. OpenAI confirmed Summers's resignation, citing a need to address questions raised by his past associations. Summers had joined OpenAI's board in January 2024.

Jeffrey Epstein, who died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, had cultivated relationships with numerous prominent figures in academia, business, and politics. Congressional scrutiny of these relationships has intensified in recent years, prompting investigations and resignations at several institutions.

Harvard’s investigation is expected to involve a review of relevant documents and interviews with individuals who may have knowledge of Summers’s interactions with Epstein. The university has not provided a timeline for the completion of the inquiry, but has affirmed its dedication to transparency and accountability throughout the process.