Cornell University president vows action on fraternity sexual assault case

Key Points:

• Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff acknowledged the university must improve its handling of sexual assault allegations involving seven former fraternity brothers, emphasizing the deep impact on the community and committing to better investigation and support.
• The allegations stem from a lawsuit filed by "Jane Doe," who accused seven former Chi Phi fraternity members of drugging and sexually assaulting her during an October 2024 incident; the accused men deny wrongdoing, and no criminal charges have been filed yet.
• Kotlikoff welcomed an independent review of Cornell's response and supports New York Governor Kathy Hochul's decision to transfer the criminal investigation to Attorney General Letitia James, who is conducting an active investigation.
• The university plans to implement changes in prevention, education, student support, mental health, substance use resources, and investigative processes without waiting for the review's conclusion, while also pledging greater transparency despite legal and privacy constraints.
• Cornell will reexamine the role of Greek life on campus and support efforts to reform New York's sexual assault laws, with Kotlikoff promising that the issue will remain a priority and not be forgotten.