Big Money, Big Parties: How a Convicted Man Still Paid for Fame

Jeffrey Epstein, even after his 2008 sex‑crime conviction, kept donating large sums to a Harvard‑linked club called the Hasty Pudding Institute. The club—known for its social gatherings, theatrical productions, and a cappella performances—accepted yearly gifts of at least $50,000.

The “Guardian of the Sphinx”

Because of these payments, Epstein earned the title “Guardian of the Sphinx” and was invited to exclusive galas in New York. These events drew celebrities, billionaires, and other high‑profile figures.

• Final invitation: Early 2019, just months before federal authorities charged him with sex‑trafficking.
• Outcome: The case was still pending when Epstein died in a Manhattan jail in August 2019.

Philanthropy vs. Accountability

Epstein’s continued support of the club illustrates how wealthy individuals can use philanthropy to maintain influence, even after serious legal troubles. The Hasty Pudding’s reliance on large donors raises several critical questions:

• Vetting standards: If a club can accept money from someone with a criminal record, what does that say about the standards of other nonprofits?
• Scrutiny depth: The situation urges society to examine whether giving money is enough, or if deeper scrutiny is needed.