Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff declared on Saturday that the institution acknowledges the need to "do better" as it faces intense questioning regarding its handling of sexual assault allegations involving seven former fraternity members.
"What happened to Jane Doe in 2024 is deeply disturbing and will weigh heavily on our community for years to come. My heart aches when I think of what she experienced," Kotlikoff conveyed in a video message directed to the Cornell community.
Kotlikoff indicated that the specifics of the case bring to the forefront critical issues concerning sexual assault, the culture of campus parties, and the prevalence of alcohol and drug abuse at the Ithaca, New York, campus. He also noted that the investigation conducted following the initial reports of the allegations is under scrutiny.
"I want to acknowledge something that can be difficult for an institution to say we don't have all the answers, but we are committed to investigating and finding the answers our community deserves. I believe we as an administration, and we as a community must do better," Kotlikoff stated.
University's Commitment to Change
Kotlikoff expressed full support for an independent review of Cornell's management of the case, to be conducted by an external law firm. He also affirmed the university's backing of Governor Kathy Hochul's decision to transfer the criminal investigation to New York Attorney General Letitia James.
The university president emphasized that Cornell would not delay implementing changes until these external reviews are finalized. Immediate actions are planned across several areas, including prevention and education initiatives, student support services, mental health and substance use resources, and refining investigative processes.
"We will act," Kotlikoff asserted.
Details of the Allegations
A lawsuit filed by "Jane Doe" contends that seven former members of the Chi Phi fraternity drugged and sexually assaulted her during an incident in October 2024 at the fraternity house. At the time, Doe was a 20-year-old undergraduate student at Cornell.
The men named in the suit have consistently denied any wrongdoing. Some assert that any sexual activity was consensual, while others deny their participation altogether. No criminal charges have been filed against the seven individuals.
Last month, Doe filed a detailed 101-page lawsuit, accusing the former fraternity members of sexual assault and rape, and also naming Cornell University and other related entities.
External Investigations and Campus Reforms
The case garnered renewed public and official attention after Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten revealed that his office had not received the complete transcript of Doe's November 2024 interview with Cornell University Police before prosecutors initially decided not to pursue charges.
Following this revelation, Van Houten reopened the investigation. Subsequently, Governor Hochul appointed the Office of the Attorney General to serve as a special prosecutor. Attorney General James confirmed on Friday that her office is currently conducting an "active criminal investigation."
Kotlikoff also addressed frustrations within the community regarding Cornell's communication about its response to the allegations. He pledged that the university would commit to greater transparency moving forward.
"There are real legal and privacy limits on what we can say, but we will make a greater effort to explain what we can to provide context about the actions Cornell has taken and to be more transparent," Kotlikoff explained.
Looking ahead, Kotlikoff indicated that Cornell would reevaluate the role and presence of fraternities and sororities on campus. Furthermore, the university plans to support legislative efforts aimed at modifying New York's sexual assault laws.
"You have my commitment that this will not be a moment that passes," Kotlikoff concluded.
