Cornell Faculty Senate Gives No Confidence Over Sexual Assault Response ‘Schtick’
Senate challenges university response
The resolution says the senate lacks confidence in central administration’s ability to address the university’s sexual assault crisis. It passed 75-50, with five abstentions and five members not voting, according to results obtained by NBC News.
The measure does not call for anyone’s removal or lay out steps for handling the fallout. It will not directly determine leadership, but the board of trustees could take the vote into account when considering whether President Michael Kotlikoff remains in office.
Lawsuit and university discipline
Jane Doe’s lawsuit, filed in September, accuses seven fraternity members of participating in a sexual assault. She told police the encounter began as a consensual threesome but involved unwanted sex and ketamine consumption.
All seven men deny the allegations. The university expelled two after an internal civil rights proceeding and imposed less severe punishments on others. The allegations drew broad criticism of Cornell and prompted students and alumni to call for reform.
Criminal review and court challenge
Gov. Kathy Hochul appointed New York Attorney General Letitia James last month to investigate and assess whether criminal charges are supported. Two defendants are seeking to disqualify James, arguing that statements of support for Jane Doe on social media show bias.
Key points
- The Cornell faculty senate voted 75-50 to express no confidence in the administration’s response.
- The vote does not directly affect leadership, but trustees may consider it in future decisions.
- Seven fraternity members deny Jane Doe’s allegations; two were expelled and others received lesser university penalties.
- Attorney General Letitia James is investigating, while defendants seek to disqualify her over alleged bias.