Independent Review of Sexual Misconduct Handling at Cornell University

Cornell University announced on Tuesday that former U.S. Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates will lead an independent review of the institution’s handling of sexual misconduct cases. Yates, who served in the Obama administration, will scrutinize Cornell’s policies, practices, and resources related to sexual harassment and assault in the wake of an alleged rape at a fraternity house in 2024.

The review will evaluate how reports of sexual misconduct are handled, the support provided to students, related disciplinary measures, and the involvement of campus police. University trustee Anne Meinig Smalling stated, “Sally Yates brings extraordinary experience, independence, and judgment to this work.” The aim is to examine Cornell’s overall approach, identifying strengths and areas for improvement.

The decision to enlist Yates follows an anonymous tip received by Cornell police, alleging that Chi Phi fraternity leaders urged a potential witness to remain silent to protect reputations. Investigators then probed into possible cover-up attempts. Reports suggest fraternity members coordinated to align their narratives.

This announcement came a day after protests erupted at Cornell, with demonstrators expressing dissatisfaction with the university’s response to the Chi Phi fraternity incident. In November 2024, a woman referred to as Jane Doe reported being sexually assaulted by several fraternity members, who allegedly pressured her to drink and use drugs. The case has sparked national discourse on campus sexual violence, drawing reactions from public figures like Florence Pugh, Mariska Hargitay, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Yates’s review will also address Cornell’s reaction to Jane Doe’s allegations. “It is imperative that Cornell be willing to examine itself with the same rigor we expect of others,” Smalling emphasized. The university hopes to emerge as a leader in preventing sexual violence and supporting victims.

Cornell has requested Yates to complete the analysis promptly and thoroughly. Meanwhile, New York Governor Kathy Hochul appointed Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor. This decision arose after new information questioned the initial handling of the case. Hochul expressed distrust in Tompkins County Attorney Matthew Van Houten’s oversight, citing his reliance on a “voluntary intoxication loophole.”

The situation involves deep scrutiny of past decisions and calls for justice for the victim, who was denied these protections initially, according to Hochul. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump criticized James’s appointment, stating she is “totally corrupt.”

For inquiries on this story, contact Newsweek editors Samantha Beech and Geoffrey Rowland.