Cornell president calls alleged gang rape ‘deeply disturbing,’ pledges greater transparency

Cornell University's president, Michael Kotlikoff, referred to the alleged gang rape of a student during a fraternity house party in 2024 as "deeply disturbing" in an eight-minute video message to the campus community on Saturday. The incident has sparked outrage and raised questions about the university's handling of the case.

In his message, Kotlikoff expressed his empathy for the victim, saying, "My heart aches when I think of what she experienced." He acknowledged troubling issues related to sexual assault, dehumanization, and party culture, alcohol, and drug use. The president reaffirmed his commitment to supporting an independent review of the university's response to the allegations, called for by New York Governor Kathy Hochul.

He also expressed support for Hochul's decision to transfer the criminal investigation to the state attorney general.

Kotlikoff highlighted the university's commitment to investigating the case and finding answers that the community deserves. However, he also admitted that the university does not have all the answers and that increased transparency is necessary. The case has led to mounting scrutiny of Cornell's handling of the incident, with several students calling for the president's resignation during a student assembly hearing.

The alleged victim, identified in court documents as Jane Doe, has filed a lawsuit against the university and seven former students. During the student assembly hearing, several speakers demanded Kotlikoff's resignation. Hochul, when asked if she believed Kotlikoff should resign, declined to take a position, stating that she needed more information.

Kotlikoff acknowledged the frustration that the university's lack of communication has caused, leading to distrust among students, parents, and others. He pledged greater transparency and more opportunities for engagement with university leaders, while also committing to support legislative efforts to change New York's sexual assault laws.

The case has reignited discussions about the "voluntary intoxication loophole" in state law, which makes it difficult to prosecute sexual assaults involving people who voluntarily consume alcohol or drugs. Governor Hochul has pledged to push for changes to this law.