Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff faced questioning from faculty on Wednesday regarding the administration's response to sexual assault allegations and issues of academic freedom. The meeting occurred as the Faculty Senate considers a resolution of no confidence in the university's leadership. The session was closed to journalists, but video obtained by CBS News New York showed faculty members debating the administration's handling of sexual misconduct.
The debate follows a 2024 case in which a student reported being gang-raped at a fraternity house. According to Title IX investigation results reported by CBS News, two students were found responsible for sexual assault and expelled, while two others were suspended for sexual misconduct. All seven men accused in a related civil lawsuit have denied the allegations. In response to the handling of these claims, Cornell announced this month that former Deputy U.S. Attorney General Sally Yates will lead an independent review of the university’s processes.
During the meeting, Kotlikoff defended the administration's actions and addressed faculty concerns about the scope of the Yates review. When asked how far back the investigation would look, Kotlikoff stated it was a "board review" with a "broad mandate" and that he did not dictate its specific parameters. Other faculty members raised concerns regarding free speech, with one speaker stating that the administration has punished over 80 students for "nonviolent speech" since 2023. Kotlikoff asked for clarification on what specific academic speech had been restricted.
The administrative changes announced on Tuesday involve a shift in how sexual assault is investigated on campus. By partnering with the New York State Police to bring in independent criminal investigators, the university is moving away from purely internal disciplinary reviews for these cases. This change, along with a ban on fraternity parties for the remainder of the academic year, immediately impacts members of Greek life organizations at the Ithaca campus.
The resolution and the accompanying independent review by Sally Yates follow faculty concerns regarding student safety and campus speech. Faculty members indicated that the 2024 case is part of a larger pattern, suggesting that other students and alumni have refrained from reporting assaults due to fear. The next meeting is scheduled for October 28, after which faculty will cast electronic votes on the resolution. The final results will clarify whether the faculty believes the administration's recent policy changes are sufficient to address these concerns.