On Wednesday, Cornell University’s Faculty Senate advanced a no-confidence vote against the university’s central administration. Faculty members questioned how leaders handled a former student’s sexual assault allegations. The dispute centers on a lawsuit filed by the former student. She alleges that seven students raped her at a fraternity house on campus in October 2024. She also claims Cornell failed to investigate her report thoroughly.
Cornell Faculty Senate Advances No-Confidence Vote
The electronic vote will remain open through November 6. Faculty members will decide whether to formally express their lack of confidence in Cornell’s administration. The resolution challenges the university’s response to sexual assault on campus. It cannot directly remove university leaders from their positions. However, it could increase pressure on Cornell’s leadership and board of trustees.
Faculty Question Cornell’s Response to Sexual Assault Allegations
Faculty Senate members introduced the resolution in early October. They raised concerns about the university’s handling of the case. During Wednesday’s meeting, professors debated whether to proceed before an independent review examines Cornell’s response. Some faculty members also described conversations with former students who reported sexual assault. These accounts fueled broader concerns about campus safety and the university’s response to such cases.
Former Student Criticizes Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff
In a letter to faculty leaders, the former student, identified in court documents as Jane Doe, criticized President Michael Kotlikoff’s response. She said he initially questioned why she had waited so long to report the alleged assault. A university spokesperson disputed her account. The spokesperson said Kotlikoff directed that question toward bystanders who failed to report the incident through Cornell’s anonymous tip line.
New York Officials Scrutinize Cornell’s Investigation
The case has raised questions about Cornell’s initial response and campus police investigation. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul criticized university police for failing to refer the matter to prosecutors. On October 1, Hochul appointed New York Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor. James will lead a criminal investigation into the allegations. As of the latest reports, prosecutors had not filed criminal charges. The men named in the lawsuit have denied the allegations.
