Cornell Faculty Debate No-Confidence Resolution Over Handling of Sexual Assault Allegations

Faculty members at Cornell University are debating a no-confidence resolution that condemns the school's leadership for its handling of sexual assault allegations, with one professor describing a "culture of fear" on campus. The resolution, introduced by labor history professor Paul Ortiz, states that the Faculty Senate has "no confidence in the ability of the central administration to effectively address the ongoing crisis of sexual assault at Cornell University."

During a closed-door faculty senate meeting, Ortiz asserted that many students who have experienced sexual assault are afraid to come forward because they believe Cornell leadership treats such incidents as a "PR problem" rather than serious crimes. He argued that this climate prevents victims from reporting their assaults.

The debate follows a November 2024 incident involving allegations of a "gang rape" at the university's Chi Phi fraternity. A student, identified as Jane Doe, filed a civil suit against seven fraternity members and the university, alleging she was drugged and raped. While no criminal charges have been filed, the New York attorney general's office is conducting an investigation. The fraternity members named in the suit have denied wrongdoing.

Ortiz stated that for years, faculty with expertise in relevant areas like student disciplinary procedures and mental health have offered assistance, but have been met with resistance from the administration. He criticized the timing of recent administrative changes, suggesting they were made only as the faculty senate meeting approached.

In response, Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff defended recent measures announced by the university aimed at strengthening campus safety and supporting survivors. These measures include increasing staff at the Office of Civil Rights, which handles Title IX investigations, and reporting sexual assault allegations to the New York State Police during the school's policy review. The university has also suspended all fraternity social events and parties pending a review of fraternity life on campus.

Kotlikoff acknowledged in a recent video statement that the university "must do better" and called the situation a "defining moment," pledging to take necessary steps to address sexual assault issues.

The faculty senate is scheduled to continue debate on the resolution, with voting to occur in the five days following their next meeting on October 28.