Pedestrians walked across Cornell University’s campus in Ithaca, New York, on Thursday, October 1, 2026. Recent allegations have placed the university in a challenging position.
Cornell University’s president, Michael I. Kotlikoff, addressed the situation after a civil lawsuit was filed, claiming a gang rape occurred at a fraternity house in 2024. An eight-minute video statement released by the university highlighted concerns over its handling of a female student’s sexual assault allegations.
“We don’t have all the answers, but we are committed to investigating and finding the answers our community deserves,” said Kotlikoff.
Jane Doe, a former Cornell student, filed the lawsuit against the university and seven former students. She reported being drugged and raped at the Chi Phi fraternity house in October 2024. The accused men have denied the allegations.
Kotlikoff described recent times as one of the most difficult weeks in Cornell’s history, expressing sympathy for Doe’s experience and acknowledging complex issues surrounding party culture and substance use.
After the alleged incident, Doe reported the assault to Cornell University police, Title IX investigators, and the campus health clinic. Her lawsuit stated she initially consented to engage in sexual contact while intoxicated but was later drugged and assaulted by several individuals.
The Tompkins County district attorney decided not to file charges, citing incomplete transcripts of Doe’s interview with Cornell Police, where she claimed she was raped.
“We must foster a culture in which sexual assault is inexcusable,” Kotlikoff emphasized, urging the community to understand consent and body autonomy.
Governor Kathy Hochul appointed New York State Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor in the case, criticizing the investigations. Kotlikoff expressed approval for this decision and revealed plans for an independent review by an external law firm.
The university aims to support legislative efforts to amend New York’s sexual assault laws. Kotlikoff assured that these issues would not fade away, announcing steps to enhance transparency, prevention education, and substance use resources.
Consideration of sororities and fraternities’ roles in campus life is also on Cornell’s agenda.
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