Cornell president says school must do better amid criticism of its investigation, tell me about this news today
04-10-2026
Cornell University President Michael I. Kotlikoff released a video message addressing mounting public outrage and criticism over the university’s handling of gang-rape allegations dating back to October 2024. He stated directly that the university “must do better” and pledged significant institutional reforms.
The controversy centers on a civil lawsuit filed by a former female undergraduate (“Jane Doe”) alleging that she was drugged and sexually assaulted by seven members of the Chi Phi fraternity. Criticism of the university intensified after local prosecutors initially declined to bring criminal charges, partly because Cornell University Police had provided only a summary rather than the full interview transcript of the victim’s account. The men involved have denied criminal wrongdoing, maintaining that the interactions were consensual or that they did not participate, and no criminal charges have been filed.
In his message, President Kotlikoff outlined several key points:
Internal Changes and Accountability: He acknowledged that poor communication from the university eroded trust. He stated that Cornell will not wait for formal investigations to conclude before overhauling student support, education, substance use resources, and Title IX/investigative procedures.
Support for Outside Inquiries: Kotlikoff welcomed an independent review by an outside law firm into Cornell’s actions and voiced support for New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s decision to hand the criminal probe over to New York Attorney General Letitia James.
Greek Life Scrutiny: He called for a thorough review of the role and culture of fraternities and sororities on campus to ensure accountability and student safety.
Support for Legal Reform: Kotlikoff voiced support for closing New York’s so-called “voluntary intoxication loophole,” a state legal standard that has historically made prosecuting sexual assault difficult when the victim voluntarily consumed alcohol or drugs.