Cornell faculty to move forward with no-confidence vote over handling of sexual assault allegations

Cornell University faculty members were divided on Wednesday about whether they had sufficient information to pass judgment on the school's leadership regarding the handling of a sexual assault allegation, according to a report by The Associated Press. The debate took place during a Faculty Senate meeting, which was closed to the media.

During the meeting, some professors advocated for patience, while others believed that years of institutional failures warranted immediate action. The discussion was recorded and later obtained by The Associated Press.

The Faculty Senate will now vote electronically on a proposed no-confidence resolution in Cornell's administration through November 6. This largely symbolic vote could put pressure on university trustees, who are responsible for selecting the school's leadership. Some faculty members found the decision to speak publicly challenging, as they shared painful experiences of harassment and concerns about professional retaliation.

Beth Frances Milles, a performing arts professor and Cornell graduate, urged for civility after recounting receiving messages from women who had experienced sexual assault, including former classmates. She stated, "I understand we have to take action. There are so many."