OSU Alumni Urge Removal of Donor Les Wexner’s Name from Football Facility
Former students of Ohio State University (OSU) are calling for the removal of billionaire Les Wexner’s name from the football facility he funded. This demand comes amid ongoing lawsuits against the university linked to sexual abuse by Dr. Richard Strauss.
Background of the Lawsuits
The former students allege OSU failed to protect them from Strauss, who abused students during physical exams from the mid-1970s to the late 1990s. Strauss died by suicide in 2005. The students claim Wexner, a prominent benefactor, has avoided subpoenas to testify about Strauss.
Connection to Jeffrey Epstein
Les Wexner’s ties to the late Jeffrey Epstein further complicate the situation. Wexner donated $2.5 million in 2007 for the football complex, a portion of which was matched by Epstein’s foundation. Epstein managed Wexner’s finances for over two decades.
Former OSU wrestler Mike DiSabato stated, “Wexner’s name should not be on the facility because he continues to defy subpoenas.” The protest is aimed at pressuring Wexner for his testimony and addressing his past association with Epstein, who has been implicated in grave criminal activities.
Legal Proceedings Involving Wexner
Lawyers representing survivors of Strauss’s abuse reported that Wexner’s private security prevented attempts to serve a subpoena. They claimed his attorney refused to acknowledge the relevance of Wexner in the ongoing case.
- Federal judge Michael H. Watson is overseeing the Strauss case.
- OSU’s legal team stated Wexner has not been identified as a witness.
OSU’s Response to Renaming the Facility
In response to calls for renaming the Les Wexner football complex, OSU referred to its “naming review procedure.” This policy asserts that name changes occur only under rare, exceptional circumstances.
Protests and Advocacy
Two weeks prior, survivors of Strauss’s abuse protested during an OSU board meeting, branding signs that read “WHERE’S WEXNER?” The visible frustration of survivors stemmed from a belief that Wexner evaded accountability.
While Wexner has not been accused in the Strauss case, he publicly condemned Epstein’s actions. However, the depth of their financial relationship raises ongoing questions about the transparency of Wexner’s involvement with OSU during Strauss’s tenure.
Financial Settlements
Since allegations first surfaced in 2018, OSU has settled over $60 million to 296 individuals affected by Strauss’s abuse. Investigations revealed at least 177 students suffered sexual misconduct at the hands of Strauss.
The community continues to demand accountability and justice. Activists seek a thorough examination of OSU’s history and handling of the Strauss case as well as Wexner’s ongoing involvement in the institution.
