Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff Faces Faculty Criticism Over Handling of Sexual Assault Case

Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff faced criticism from faculty members during a meeting on October 14, 2026, regarding his administration's handling of a woman's report of gang rape at a fraternity house in 2024. Kotlikoff acknowledged some missteps but defended his leadership as he responded to questions from the Faculty Senate, which was considering a no-confidence resolution against him. The meeting was closed to the media, but an audio recording obtained by The Associated Press revealed Kotlikoff's request for more time to implement reforms and cultural changes in student social life. He emphasized the need for experienced leadership to address complex issues and stated that replacing him would harm Cornell's reputation. Kotlikoff also mentioned the possibility of imposing restrictions on Greek life, indicating that the university needed to assess whether fraternities could operate safely. He announced a ban on fraternity parties through the end of the academic year. Faculty members expressed their loss of confidence in the administration's ability to combat sexual assault on campus. Richard Bensel, a professor of government, noted the faculty's anger towards Kotlikoff. Some members cautioned that a quick no-confidence vote would not resolve the underlying issues. A vote was expected to take place on October 28. A woman, referred to as Jane Doe in court documents, filed a lawsuit alleging that seven members of the Chi Phi fraternity sexually assaulted her in October 2024 and that Cornell mishandled her complaints. The accused men denied the allegations, claiming their interactions were consensual or that they were not involved. The criminal investigation by Cornell's police department was halted after the local district attorney determined that no crime had occurred. Kotlikoff had previously labeled the allegations as 'deeply disturbing' and suspended the fraternity while investigations were conducted. He later formed a task force to review Cornell's handling of sexual assault cases. In a recent interview, Kotlikoff admitted he did not follow up on the woman's case or the criminal investigation. He acknowledged not having read the Cornell Police Department's report on the allegations, citing confidentiality and university policy. Kotlikoff denied a lack of interest in the matter and stated he was unaware that students had been expelled or suspended as a result of the Title IX investigation until recently. The faculty's division on the issue was highlighted by Grant Farred, a professor of Africana Studies and English, who noted differing perspectives between the humanities and sciences. Professor Paul Ortiz, who sponsored the no-confidence resolution, expressed concerns that the administration was not adequately addressing the ongoing crisis. Anne Marie Brady, a senior extension associate at Cornell's School of Industrial and Labor Relations, welcomed the announcement that state police would temporarily handle sexual assault investigations but questioned the timing of the announcement just before the Senate debate. Kotlikoff became interim president in July 2024 and was appointed permanently the following year, facing various challenges including a workers' strike and criticism over a settlement related to civil rights investigations.