Cornell names Sally Yates to review university’s response to rape case
Cornell University’s trustees selected Sally Yates, a former US deputy attorney general, to assess how the university investigates sexual assault and harassment claims. The review will also cover disciplinary procedures and campus police responses.
No criminal charges have been brought. Cornell says its own investigation led to some accused students being expelled and others suspended; the university also closed the fraternity chapter.
Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff said the university would investigate further, acknowledging that it does not yet have every answer. New York Governor Kathy Hochul had called for an independent review amid concerns raised by students, faculty and others.
Yates is now a partner at King & Spalding and has led other independent investigations, including a 2022 inquiry into abuse and misconduct in the National Women’s Soccer League. The article does not specify when Cornell’s review will be completed.
Key points
- Yates will examine Cornell’s sexual assault investigations, discipline system and campus police response.
- The review follows criticism over a former student’s allegations involving Chi Phi members.
- Cornell reports expulsions, suspensions and the closure of the fraternity chapter; no criminal charges have been filed.