Cornell faculty declares 'no confidence' in university leadership

Cornell University's Faculty Senate has voted 75-50 to express "no confidence" in the administration's handling of a sexual assault crisis on campus. The resolution, which passed despite five abstentions and five non-votes, reflects growing frustration among faculty members over the university's response to allegations of sexual misconduct.

The vote comes after a former student, identified only as Jane Doe, 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. The university has since closed the fraternity chapter, disciplined several students, and closed the investigation, though it has been reopened and handed to New York's attorney general.

Faculty members have criticized President Michael Kotlikoff for not taking more decisive action to strengthen disciplinary processes, push for criminal investigations, and address campus party culture. The university's Board Chair, Anne Smalling, acknowledged the vote reflects deep anger on campus but also expressed support for the administration.

President Kotlikoff has not yet responded to the faculty vote, which he has noted will be addressed in writing within 30 days. Faculty members plan to push for sweeping reforms following the vote, with Iris Packman, a co-sponsor of the resolution, stating the decision is just the beginning of their efforts.