Cornell president says university 'must do better' after frat house rape allegations

Cornell University president Michael Kotlikoff has vowed the institution must improve following allegations of sexual assault at a fraternity house. In an eight-minute video statement released on Saturday, Kotlikoff called the woman's claims of being drugged and raped by a group of men "deeply disturbing." The 20-year-old student, identified as Jane Doe, alleged the incident occurred on October 19, 2024, involving seven Chi Phi fraternity members, alcohol, and the drug ketamine.

Despite reporting the incident to Cornell police two weeks later, no charges were filed. Jane Doe subsequently filed a civil lawsuit, alleging Cornell had failed to protect her and adequately punish the accused men.

Kotlikoff stated that Cornell is committed to thoroughly investigating the handling of the case and ensuring the university community better understands and practices informed consent. He emphasized the institution must foster a culture in which sexual assault is unacceptably and victims are empowered, treated with compassion, and taken seriously.

Kotlikoff acknowledged this as a defining moment in the university's history, asserting that it is a defining moment the university owes to Jane Doe and other survivors of assault to address the issue appropriately.

The university president suggested a thorough examination of the role of fraternities and sororities in campus life, emphasizing individual responsibility in treating others and speaking up to prevent harm. He also stated that the school would address how Cornell will use this moment to lead broader efforts to combat sexual assault, not only on its campus but beyond.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed deep concern over the investigation and appointed New York Attorney General Letitia James to lead a review of the case. Kotlikoff supported this decision and welcomed an independent review by a law firm to assess Cornell's handling of the situation. Jane Doe's lawsuit detailed her intoxication during the incident, which precluded her ability to provide consent.