By Sohaib Shams
Cornell University's faculty senate has passed a symbolic vote of no confidence in the central administration's handling of sexual assault allegations, reflecting growing campus outrage over a former student's lawsuit.
Vote details
The resolution passed Friday by a 75-50 margin, stating that the faculty senate "has no confidence in the ability of the central administration to effectively address the ongoing crisis of sexual assault at Cornell University." The vote does not carry the power to remove leaders.
Allegations and lawsuit
A former student, identified as Jane Doe, sued the university and the Chi Phi fraternity in September over an alleged gang rape at the fraternity house in October 2024. All seven accused men have denied wrongdoing; none have been criminally charged. Doe reported the assault to campus police, but the local prosecutor declined to bring charges at the time.
Administration response
President Michael Kotlikoff has been criticized for reportedly questioning why Doe waited weeks to report the incident, an account the university calls "incorrect." Cornell later acknowledged shortcomings in its handling of the case, hired a former attorney general to conduct an independent review, and announced measures including the cancellation of fraternity parties.
Legal and political scrutiny
New York Attorney General Letitia James is conducting an independent investigation to determine if criminal charges are warranted. Governor Kathy Hochul this week directed state police to investigate any future sexual offense complaints at the university.
Lawyer's reaction
Doe's attorney, Thomas Giuffra, welcomed the faculty vote as a step toward addressing what he called a "longstanding scourge of sexual assault on campus."
