Cornell Faculty Senate Declares No Confidence In University Leadership

The Faculty Senate at Cornell University voted 75-50 to declare "no confidence" in the university's top leaders following a lawsuit alleging a former student was gang raped at a fraternity party in 2024. The vote, which passed with five senators abstaining and five others not voting, reflects deep discontent on campus over the handling of the alleged sexual misconduct and the broader issue of sexual violence in the university community.

The resolution comes after weeks of debate among professors about whether Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff and other administrators adequately addressed the alleged rape and curtailed sexual misconduct at the prestigious institution. Cornell's trustees stated the vote signified a "clear signal of unacceptable behavior" but affirmed Kotlikoff and his administration's commitment to addressing the issue.

Jane Doe, the accuser, has criticized the university president's response, saying it left her feeling unsupported. Her attorney expressed hope that the resolution would further educate and support the Cornell community. The board of trustees emphasized the university's efforts, including expanded educational programs, additional victim advocates, and increased staff at the Office of Civil Rights.

The case began in September when a former student filed a lawsuit against the university and seven former members of the Chi Phi fraternity, alleging she was drugged and raped at a fraternity house in October 2024. All seven men have denied the allegations. The local district attorney initially deemed the woman had consented, but the investigation has since been re-opened by New York's attorney general.