Cornell President Vows University Will 'Do Better' After Fraternity Rape Allegations
Michael Kotlikoff addresses deeply disturbing allegations of a student being drugged and assaulted, initiating a review of the university's handling of the case and the role of Greek life.
Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff has stated that the institution "must do better" following allegations from a student who claims she was drugged and gang-raped at a fraternity house. In a video statement released Saturday, Kotlikoff described the accusations as "deeply disturbing" and acknowledged that the incident has raised concerns about drug and alcohol use on campus, as well as the effectiveness of the university's investigative processes.
The student, identified as Jane Doe, alleges that on October 19, 2024, she was assaulted for hours by seven men from the university's Chi Phi fraternity. She claims alcohol and the drug ketamine were involved in the incident. Doe reported the alleged assault to Cornell University police two weeks later, but no charges were filed. In a civil lawsuit filed last month, Doe accused Cornell of failing to protect her and inadequately punishing those involved.
Kotlikoff confirmed that Cornell is "committed to investigating" how the case was handled and reiterated that the administration and the broader university community need to improve. "We must foster a culture in which sexual assault is inexcusable and ensure our community is empowered and understands informed consent," he stated. He emphasized the need for an environment where victims of sexual assault "feel safe coming forward and are treated with compassion and dignity."
The university president also indicated that a "serious look at the role of fraternities and sororities in campus life" is necessary as part of a larger effort. "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," Kotlikoff added.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her deep concern over the handling of the investigation and has appointed New York Attorney General Letitia James to lead a review of the case. Kotlikoff voiced his support for this criminal investigation and welcomed an independent review by a law firm into Cornell's actions. Doe's lawsuit asserts that she was intoxicated during the alleged assault and therefore unable to give consent.