Cornell University president pledges review of fraternities, sororities after alleged gang rape allegation

NEW YORK, 5 OCTOBER 2026 —

Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff has pledged to conduct an independent review of the school’s handling of a 2024 gang rape allegation involving a fraternity, following mounting criticism over its response and a civil lawsuit filed by the victim.

The announcement comes as Cornell faces renewed scrutiny over its campus culture, with New York Governor Kathy Hochul ordering a special prosecutor to investigate the case. The victim, identified in court documents as Jane Doe, alleges she was drugged and raped by multiple members of the Chi Phi fraternity in 2024, while the accused men have denied wrongdoing.

The university’s own investigation led to disciplinary actions, including expulsions, but the handling of the case—particularly the exclusion of key victim statements from police reports—has sparked outrage among students and lawmakers.

Kotlikoff’s video message, released on Saturday, marks the first direct response from university leadership since the lawsuit was filed last month. He acknowledged that the incident had raised "serious questions" about Cornell’s investigative processes and vowed to increase transparency.

"We don’t have all the answers, but we are committed to investigating and finding the answers our community deserves," he said, adding that the university’s board of trustees would announce details of the independent review later this week. The review was previously demanded by Hochul, who also directed the state attorney general to take over the criminal investigation from local authorities.

The lawsuit, filed against Cornell, seven fraternity members, the Chi Phi fraternity itself, and an Ithaca bar, alleges systemic failures in the university’s response to the assault. According to court documents and investigative records obtained by The New York Times, Jane Doe told a police officer she was "100% confident" she had been raped, but this statement was omitted from the official report submitted to prosecutors, leading to the case being dropped.

Cornell defended its actions, stating it had conducted a "comprehensive investigation" and imposed disciplinary measures, including the suspension of the Chi Phi fraternity. However, critics argue the university’s response was inadequate, particularly given the severity of the allegations.

During a student assembly on October 1, several speakers demanded Kotlikoff’s resignation, reflecting deep frustration with the university’s handling of the matter. Kotlikoff’s address did not address these calls directly but emphasized the need for structural changes. "At their best, these organizations can provide students with friendship, belonging, mentorship, and a powerful sense of community," he said of fraternities and sororities.

"But being part of a group can never diminish individual responsibility." He announced plans to seek input from students, alumni, and external stakeholders on how to reform Greek life while preserving its positive aspects.

The case has broader implications for how universities and law enforcement agencies address sexual assault allegations. New York state officials have appointed a special prosecutor to re-examine the criminal investigation, signaling a shift in oversight. Meanwhile, Cornell’s commitment to an independent review suggests a recognition of the need for systemic reform. Kotlikoff’s pledge to "be more transparent" about future actions indicates a willingness to engage with the community, though specific measures remain unclear.

As the university prepares to unveil details of the independent review, the focus will be on whether the findings lead to meaningful changes in campus policies and accountability mechanisms. The case has already prompted soul-searching among students and alumni, with many questioning whether Cornell’s current structures adequately protect victims of sexual violence. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the university’s response evolves from defensive statements to concrete action.