Interlochen Arts Center Details Decades of Abuse in Independent Report

Why it matters locally: The Interlochen Center for the Arts, a prominent institution located in Michigan, is directly impacted by these findings. The report's recommendations and the institution's response will shape future policies and student safety measures within the state.

INTERLOCHEN, Mich. – Interlochen Center for the Arts has published the findings of an independent investigation into allegations of sexual abuse and misconduct on its campus. The 222-page report, prepared by the law firm Guidepost Solutions, identifies 28 individuals as perpetrators and 224 individuals as survivors of abuse. The documented incidents span a period from the 1960s to the 2010s. The investigation, which began in 2022, found a culture that enabled abuse and discouraged reporting. Guidepost Solutions stated in the report that “sexual abuse and misconduct were prevalent at Interlochen.” The firm cited an environment where abusers often faced no accountability and victims feared speaking out due to potential damage to their artistic careers. Guidestone Solutions conducted 343 interviews and reviewed over 200,000 documents, including institutional records and personal accounts. The report details various forms of abuse, including sexual assault, harassment, and inappropriate relationships between staff and students. Jeffrey Epstein, who faced federal charges for sex trafficking, is named in the report. Guidepost Solutions confirmed that Epstein visited Interlochen’s campus multiple times between 1996 and 2005. During these visits, he reportedly sponsored student scholarships and interacted with students. The report notes that authorities did not investigate Epstein for alleged misconduct at Interlochen during those years. Members of Interlochen’s board of trustees and leadership acknowledged the report’s findings. Prior to the report’s release, Interlochen’s Board Chair, Glynn Williams, described the institution’s past response to abuse as a “failure.” He stated, “We failed to recognize and address the pain, the abuse, and the suffering of those in our care.” Interlochen President Naseem Khury said, “We are profoundly sorry for the harm caused by those who abused their power at Interlochen.” The report outlines 21 recommendations for Interlochen. These recommendations include establishing an independent office for misconduct investigations, improving reporting mechanisms, and implementing comprehensive training programs for staff and faculty. Interlochen officials stated their commitment to implementing these recommendations and creating a safer environment for students. The institution has also established a restorative justice program for survivors. This program aims to provide support and resources to those affected by the historical abuse. Interlochen encourages anyone with information regarding abuse at the center to contact the appropriate authorities or the designated support services.