Dean Kamen Placed on Leave by FIRST Amid Epstein Revelations

The youth robotics organization FIRST has placed its founder, Dean Kamen, on leave from all activities as it investigates his associations with Jeffrey Epstein. This decision follows recent disclosures from the U.S. Department of Justice regarding Kamen’s interactions with Epstein, a convicted sex offender. In a statement released over the weekend, Board Chair Laurie Leshin emphasized that the organization is committed to conducting a thorough review.

Kamen, who founded FIRST in 1989, has been a significant figure in promoting science and engineering education through robotics. The organization now boasts teams in more than 30 countries and has engaged over 3.4 million children since its inception. Kamen’s involvement with Epstein, while not linked to any accusations of wrongdoing, has raised concerns due to the nature and frequency of their communications, which continued years after Epstein’s conviction.

The review is being conducted by an independent law firm, and Kamen has expressed his willingness to cooperate fully. As part of this process, he will step back from all FIRST-related activities. According to the statement, “Both Dean and the Board of Directors agree that nothing should distract from the inspiring work of the organization and its teams, mentors, and volunteers.”

FIRST has garnered substantial corporate support over the years, with sponsorship from major companies such as Apple, Google, and Boeing. Kamen has been instrumental in elevating the organization to a prestigious platform, with high-profile events attended by political leaders, including former Presidents George H.W. Bush and Barack Obama.

In recent years, Kamen has also been a leading force behind ARMI, a government-funded project focused on developing medical technologies for tissue regeneration. His business acumen has fostered strong relationships with political figures, including Senator Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Kamen facilitated the sale of $83 million worth of protective medical gear to various state and local governments.

As the investigation unfolds, FIRST aims to ensure that its mission remains intact. Kamen’s past connections have come under scrutiny following the emergence of photographs showing him with Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s associate. Kamen has previously described his dealings with Epstein as “limited” and claims he was unaware of Epstein’s criminal activities prior to media coverage.

The organization’s commitment to youth education and innovation remains at the forefront of its goals. New Hampshire recently invested approximately $500,000 to provide FIRST-created robotics kits to every school in the state, a move Kamen sees as vital for integrating robotics into the classroom.

Despite the controversy surrounding Kamen, FIRST continues to attract attention and support from various sectors. As the independent review progresses, the organization is focused on maintaining its reputation and commitment to empowering the next generation of innovators.

Kamen previously served on the Board of Trustees for NHPR from 1987 to 1992, but currently has no affiliation with the organization.