Cornell University’s Faculty Senate voted 75-50 to pass a resolution declaring no confidence in the university’s central administration, including President Michael Kotlikoff, following allegations of mishandling sexual assault claims. The vote, which included five abstentions and five non-voters, occurred on Friday, local time, and reflects ongoing campus discontent over a former student’s lawsuit alleging she was gang raped at a fraternity house in October 2024.
The resolution 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.” While the vote is symbolic and non-binding, supporters say it aims to pressure the Board of Trustees to address perceived institutional failures.
Board of Trustees Chair Anne Smalling responded in a statement that the faculty vote “reflects the deep anger across our campus” and acknowledged the unacceptable nature of the alleged incident. She affirmed confidence in Kotlikoff’s leadership, stating his administration is “the right leadership to thoughtfully and comprehensively address the serious problem of sexual assault.”
Background: Allegations and Legal Proceedings
The controversy stems from a lawsuit filed in September 2024 by a former Cornell student, identified as Jane Doe, who alleges she was drugged with ketamine and raped during a fraternity party at the Chi Phi house from October 19–20, 2024. Doe named seven former fraternity members in the lawsuit, all of whom have denied the allegations, asserting the encounter was consensual or that they were not involved.
Cornell’s internal Title IX investigation led to the expulsion of two students and sanctions including suspensions and probation for others. The Tompkins County District Attorney initially declined to pursue criminal charges in November 2024, citing Doe’s six-page statement, but the case has since been reopened and transferred to the New York Attorney General’s office for further review.
Faculty Demands and Administrative Response
Supporters of the no-confidence resolution, including Labor History Professor Paul Ortiz, framed the vote as a call for systemic change, criticizing what they describe as inadequate responses to sexual violence. A statement from resolution sponsors emphasized the need for “meaningful, evidence-based steps to reduce sexual assault” and improved support for survivors, including reforms to Title IX processes and fraternity culture.
In response, Cornell announced it had hired former U.S. Acting Attorney General Sally Yates to conduct an independent review of its sexual assault policies. The university stated that Kotlikoff and his team are implementing their own plan to enhance student safety, survivor support, and cultural accountability.
Key Actions Taken by Cornell:
- Hired Sally Yates for an independent review of sexual assault policies.
- Initiated internal reforms to improve survivor support and accountability.
- Faced calls from faculty to release the full Yates report and increase transparency.
Ongoing Investigations and Campus Reactions
The New York Attorney General’s office is now overseeing the investigation into the alleged assault, while Cornell continues its own probe into its handling of the case. Campus demonstrations have occurred in support of Doe, with students and faculty demanding greater accountability and cultural reform.
The Faculty Senate’s vote follows weeks of debate over whether administrators acted swiftly or appropriately in response to the allegations. Opponents of the resolution argued that faculty lacked sufficient information to evaluate the administration’s actions, while supporters maintained the vote was necessary to signal urgency.
What Happens Next?
The Board of Trustees retains authority over leadership decisions, including whether President Kotlikoff remains in his role. The trustees have indicated they will consider the Faculty Senate’s resolution in future deliberations. Meanwhile, Cornell’s administration has committed to addressing the issues highlighted by the Yates review and its own internal findings.
Faculty sponsors of the resolution stated they will pursue further actions, including:
- Demanding transparency regarding the Yates report.
- Reforming Title IX processes to better support survivors.
- Collaborating with independent law enforcement for trauma-informed investigations.