Cornell President Addresses Alleged Gang Rape, Pledges Transparency

Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff described the alleged gang rape of a student at a fraternity house in 2024 as “deeply disturbing” and pledged greater transparency in the university’s handling of the case. In a video message to the Cornell community, Kotlikoff acknowledged that the past week has been among the most difficult in the university’s history and addressed troubling questions surrounding investigations into the incident.

“My heart aches when I think of what she experienced,” Kotlikoff said. “It raises heartbreaking and troubling issues about sexual assault, dehumanization and aspects of party culture, alcohol and drug use.”

Kotlikoff reaffirmed the university’s commitment to supporting an independent review of Cornell’s response to the allegations, a review called for by New York Governor Kathy Hochul. He also stated his support for Hochul’s decision to transfer the criminal investigation to the state attorney general. Details about the Board of Trustees’ planned announcement regarding the review are expected next week.

Pedestrians walk on the campus at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y., Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026.

Scrutiny has intensified in recent days over Cornell’s actions following allegations that the woman, identified in court documents as Jane Doe, was sexually assaulted by multiple fraternity members. Doe has filed a lawsuit against the university and seven former students.

During a student assembly hearing on Thursday, students voiced concerns and called for improvements in Cornell’s response to sexual assault, with some speakers demanding Kotlikoff’s resignation. When asked about Kotlikoff’s potential resignation on Friday, Hochul stated she did not yet have sufficient information to comment.

Kotlikoff acknowledged student frustration stemming from a perceived lack of communication, which he said has eroded trust. He cited “real legal and privacy limits” on the information the university can publicly share but promised increased transparency and more avenues for students, parents, and other members of the community to interact with university leadership.

The case has also reignited debate surrounding a New York state law that critics argue makes prosecuting sexual assaults difficult when voluntary alcohol or drug consumption is involved, even if the individual becomes incapacitated and unable to consent. Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten cited this law in his decision not to pursue charges initially, noting the victim’s original police statement described voluntary drug use and sexual activity.

Governor Hochul has committed to advocating for changes to this law, which is often referred to as the “voluntary intoxication loophole” by those seeking to close it.

Furthermore, Kotlikoff called for a “serious look at the role of fraternities and sororities in campus life,” indicating that Cornell will collaborate with students, alumni, and other stakeholders to examine how to uphold the benefits of Greek life while enhancing accountability and transparency. “Being part of a group can never diminish individual responsibility for our own actions, for how we treat others or for speaking up when someone may be at risk,” he stated.