Petition Demands University of Arizona Dump Eric Schmidt Over Epstein File Mentions

As the University of Arizona prepares for its commencement ceremony in just nine days, a controversy has erupted over this year’s keynote speaker, former Google CEO Eric Schmidt. More than 800 students and community members have signed a petition calling on the university to remove Schmidt from the speaking roster and rescind his honorary degree invitation. Their rationale? Schmidt’s name appears multiple times in the infamous Jeffrey Epstein files.

The Epstein files have become a key resource exposing the vast network of powerful individuals linked to Epstein’s trafficking and abuse ring. While Schmidt is not accused of any criminal conduct, his documented presence in Epstein’s orbit has raised alarms among students and activists demanding accountability and transparency.

Francisco Burke, a junior at the university and one of the petition’s organizers, told News 4 Tucson about the campaign. “I was literally just on the Mall like ‘Hey, did you know your commencement speaker is in the Epstein files,’ and they were all like ‘Wait what?’” Burke said. However, Burke could not point to any direct connection or misconduct by Schmidt, only that Epstein invited him to a 2013 dinner party—a meeting Schmidt’s representative declined.

University spokesperson Mitch Zak defended the invitation, highlighting Schmidt’s “extraordinary leadership and global contributions in technology, innovation and scientific advancement.” Zak emphasized Schmidt’s role in Google’s rise and his philanthropic partnerships that benefit the university.

Yet for many, the presence of any Epstein-linked figure in a position of honor is unacceptable. The petition reflects a broader push to confront how Epstein’s influence continues to touch elite institutions and to reject any attempt to whitewash those ties.

Schmidt’s media team has not responded to requests for comment. Meanwhile, the university faces mounting pressure to reckon with the legacy of Epstein’s reach and the optics of elevating a speaker with even tenuous links to his network.

This episode underscores how the Epstein files remain a potent tool for activists seeking to expose and challenge the lingering power of Epstein’s enablers. The University of Arizona’s decision in the coming days will reveal whether it prioritizes accountability or prestige in the face of these concerns.