By Fatma Younis
Cornell University's Faculty Senate voted no confidence in the school's leadership Friday over its handling of sexual assault allegations on campus.
Vote Details
The resolution passed 75-50 with five abstentions and five senators not voting, reflecting deep discontent after a former student's lawsuit alleging she was gang raped at a fraternity party in 2024.
Lawsuit and Investigation
The lawsuit, filed in September, accuses seven former Chi Phi fraternity members of drugging and raping the woman in October 2024. The local district attorney initially ruled the encounter consensual, but the investigation was reopened and transferred to the New York attorney general. Cornell's Title IX investigation resulted in two expulsions, two suspensions with probation, two students required to write reflection papers and complete bystander training, and a seventh barred from campus.
Leadership Response
President Michael Kotlikoff defended his administration, pledging to make Cornell a leader in addressing sexual assault and leaving open the possibility of restrictions on Greek life. He argued that replacing him would not solve complex problems and urged faculty to allow time for evidence-based changes.
Independent Review
Some professors called for patience pending an independent investigation by former U.S. Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates, hired to examine the university's response to the 2024 report and its overall procedures. The no-confidence resolution did not demand Kotlikoff's resignation.
