Cornell Faculty Senate Considers No Confidence Vote for President Kotlikoff

Cornell University President Michael I. Kotlikoff faced a hostile Faculty Senate meeting on October 14, 2026, as the body deliberates a resolution of no confidence in his leadership. The administrative crisis follows a lawsuit by a former undergraduate who accused seven men of sexually assaulting her at a 2024 fraternity party.

In response to the allegations, Kotlikoff banned parties at fraternity houses to facilitate a safety examination and commissioned former Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates to conduct an independent review. However, faculty members criticized these measures as reactive. Professor Risa Lieberwitz and other senators argued that the administration has failed to address a systemic culture of fear and rising reports of sexual assault on campus.

While some senators are pushing for the no-confidence vote scheduled for October 28, others have suggested postponing the decision until the Yates review is finalized. Kotlikoff defended his tenure, arguing that replacing the university president would not solve the underlying problems and would instead damage the institution's reputation.