Columbus, Ohio – Ohio State University’s interim executive vice president and provost, Trevor Brown, issued a ruling on Friday that the university will continue to display Leslie Wexner’s name on multiple campus buildings. The decision follows a review process that received 512 petitions between January and September, according to the Standing Advisory Committee for the Review of University Space and Entity Names.
Petitioners argued that Wexner’s historic ties to the late Jeffrey Epstein and questions about his possible knowledge of sexual abuse by former university physician Dr. Richard Strauss warranted the removal of his name. The committee, however, concluded that university policy requires “substantial evidence” of wrongdoing before a name can be taken down, and noted that Wexner faces no criminal charges.
“The committee is not and was never intended to become an investigatory body like a law‑enforcement or auditing organization,” Brown said in his statement. He added that further review “should not proceed at this time,” but the process allows for future evaluation should new evidence emerge.
The controversy began a year ago after renewed scrutiny of Wexner’s relationship with Epstein. Wexner also resisted attempts to serve a subpoena related to the Strauss abuse case; Dr. Strauss died by suicide in 2005. In June, survivors of Strauss’s abuse reached a final settlement with Ohio State, bringing some closure to that chapter.
University policy and next steps
Brown emphasized that the university’s naming policy is designed to protect the integrity of campus spaces while ensuring due process. “Substantial evidence” means documented proof that meets a high evidentiary standard, not merely public opinion or unverified allegations.
While the current review is halted, the university’s policy does not preclude reopening the case if credible new information is presented. Brown encouraged petitioners to continue submitting any verifiable evidence that meets the policy’s criteria.
Community reaction
Local alumni and community members expressed mixed feelings. Some praised the administration for adhering to established policy and avoiding a precedent of removing names based solely on public pressure. Others argued that the university should take a stronger moral stance given the seriousness of the allegations surrounding Epstein and Strauss.
Regardless of differing viewpoints, the decision underscores Ohio State’s commitment to a transparent, evidence‑based process for evaluating the names that adorn its campus. The university will maintain the existing signage while monitoring the situation for any developments that might warrant a renewed review.
Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.
