Bill Ackman, the CEO and portfolio manager of Pershing Square Capital Management, has stepped forward to address the controversies surrounding his wife, Neri Oxman. The focus is on Oxman’s reported connections to Jeffrey Epstein and Brad Pitt, and Ackman aims to provide clarity on the matter.
Epstein’s Link to MIT
Ackman reveals that Neri Oxman’s lab received a $150k grant from Epstein during her time at MIT. He emphasizes the brevity and professionalism of their interaction, stating that the meeting was arranged by the head of the MediaLab. Epstein was presented as a donor like many others, and Oxman only met him once, accompanied by other MIT faculty members.
Dinner Invitations
Ackman discloses that Epstein extended multiple dinner invitations to Oxman, all of which she declined. He highlights the unique aspect of Oxman’s contribution of resin sculptures, or ‘orbs,’ as customary gifts for MIT MediaLab donors, suggesting a routine practice rather than a personalized connection.
Oxman’s Regret
Ackman provides insight into Oxman’s public apology to students and acknowledges her remorse for accepting funds from Epstein. He points out MIT’s attempts to conceal Epstein’s donations, as revealed in a New Yorker expose, underscoring the university’s efforts to keep the financial ties hidden.
Oxman’s Brad Pitt Connection
Addressing claims about Oxman’s involvement with Brad Pitt, Ackman clarifies that Pitt’s visits to Oxman’s lab were strictly professional. Pitt expressed interest in Oxman’s work, visited her lab for a cultural architecture project, and met Oxman once in San Francisco – a connection Ackman deems entirely professional and non-controversial.
Plagiarism Allegations
Regarding recent plagiarism allegations against Oxman, Ackman implies a connection between these claims and his public criticism of MIT’s President. He suggests a possible agenda behind the timing of these accusations and urges a closer examination of the circumstances.
Ackman’s Response to Criticism
Responding to criticism, Ackman staunchly defends his family, arguing that the allegations against Oxman are part of a larger agenda. He emphasizes the need for facts to surface before concluding, framing the situation as blowback for his public stand against MIT’s President.
Comments