From The Boston Globe · · 1m 50s
Cornell President Admits Not Following Up on Gang Rape Allegations
Cornell president admits failing to follow up on gang rape case before no-confidence vote.
In brief
Cornell president admits failing to follow up on gang rape case before no-confidence vote. Cornell president Michael Kotlikoff admitted not knowing if a student was expelled or suspended after gang rape allegations at a Chi Phi fraternity house. Originally reported by The Boston Globe.
Cornell president admits not following up
Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff knew in 2024 that a student reported gang rape at a Chi Phi fraternity house but never followed up to learn what happened to her or if any accused students…
Kotlikoff unaware of student's status
Kotlikoff admitted he did not know until recently that the woman had dropped out of Cornell or that students had been expelled or suspended over the incident.
Kotlikoff's November 2024 message
Kotlikoff publicly addressed 'deeply disturbing' allegations involving drug use and sexual violence at the Chi Phi fraternity house in a November 2024 message to the Cornell community.
Task force convened but no follow-up
He convened a presidential task force to examine how Cornell handles sexual assault but said he never followed up to learn outcomes of criminal or Title IX investigations.
National attention on case
The case drew national attention after Jane Doe filed a lawsuit alleging seven Chi Phi fraternity members sexually assaulted or exploited her in October 2024.
State police to investigate
Kotlikoff announced a ban on fraternity parties through the end of the academic year and plans to give state police a role in investigating sexual assault reports.
District attorney reopens case
Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten initially declined to pursue charges but later reopened the investigation after the lawsuit was filed.
Faculty Senate no-confidence vote
The Cornell Faculty Senate proposed a resolution declaring no confidence in the administration’s ability to handle reports of sexual assault on campus.
What matters most
Cornell president Michael Kotlikoff admitted not knowing if a student was expelled or suspended after gang rape allegations at a Chi Phi fraternity house.
