Title: The Dark Side of Interlochen Center for the Arts: How Epstein and Maxwell Used Their Influence to Prey on Young Artists The Interlochen Center for the Arts, an esteemed boarding school in Michigan known for nurturing young artistic talent, found itself at the center of a dark scandal when it was revealed that Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell used their wealth and influence to gain access to the prestigious institution. The duo allegedly targeted some of their earliest victims through a rental lodge donated by Epstein himself, which served as their base for recruitment at Interlochen. The idyllic school, founded nearly a century ago between two picturesque lakes south of Traverse City, is renowned for its programs in music, theater, dance, and visual arts. It has produced notable alumni such as Josh Groban, Norah Jones, Chappell Roan, Felicity Huffman, and Da’Vine Joy Randolph. However, the school’s association with Epstein tarnished its reputation, making it an unwitting accomplice in their heinous crimes. Epstein’s connection to Interlochen dates back to 1967 when he attended the summer camp as a young bassoon player. In the 1990s, after becoming a wealthy financier, Epstein reconnected with his alma mater and was seen by administrators as a loyal benefactor who showered the school with donations. His influence allowed him to access areas where he could prey on vulnerable students under the guise of safety provided by an esteemed institution. Former Interlochen official Russ McMahon admitted that while mistakes may have been made, it was out of naivety that Epstein had such unrestricted access to campus grounds. From 1994 to 2003, he served as the director of annual giving and later the director of major gifts at Interlochen. The revelation about Epstein’s activities at Interlochen raises several questions about how institutions can better protect their students from predators who use their wealth and influence for nefarious purposes. It also highlights the importance of vigilance in accepting donations or support from individuals with questionable backgrounds, no matter how well-intentioned they may seem initially. In conclusion, this scandal serves as a stark reminder that even prestigious institutions like Interlochen Center for the Arts are not immune to the dark side of human nature. It underscores the need for heightened vigilance and transparency in dealing with individuals who seek to exploit vulnerable populations under the guise of philanthropy or support.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2026/02/19/nx-s1-5707290/epstein-files-victims-interlochen-ghislaine-maxwell)
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