Edward Kennedy’s Sons and Widow in Dispute Over Institute

Edward M. Kennedy’s sons are at odds with his widow, Vicki Kennedy, over her handling of the nonprofit organization intended to shepherd the late Senate lion’s legacy of public service, writes The Boston Globe.

Edward M. Kennedy Jr. and Patrick Kennedy are concerned about potential cost overruns on construction of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the U.S. Senate in Hyannis Port, Mass., and what they view as a lack of transparency by its board on finances and strategy, according to a friend authorized by the family to talk to the Globe.

“The children feel totally left out,” the friend said. “Vicki totally controls the board.”

The institute, launched last year, was developed by Senator and Ms. Kennedy in the years before his death and envisioned as a center for study of the Senate and programs to promote public service.

Board chairman Lee Fentress, a longtime friend of the senator’s, defended Ms. Kennedy’s leadership, calling her “a tireless and passionate advocate for the institute.” He said he is to meet with Edward M. Kennedy Jr. in the coming days to discuss the family’s concerns, adding, “I am convinced that once we do this, his commitments to the institution will be reinforced.”