Cornell Faculty Senate Proposes No Confidence Vote Over Rape Case
Cornell University Faculty Senate members introduced a no-confidence resolution against the administration following the handling of a 2024 alleged campus gang rape.
Members of the Cornell University Faculty Senate introduced a resolution for a vote of no confidence against the university administration. The move follows the handling of a 2024 alleged gang rape on campus and is supported by approximately 40 senators. A full Senate vote is scheduled for October 14.
The resolution coincides with campus protests and a lawsuit filed by the victim, identified as Jane Doe, against the university, the Chi Phi fraternity, and seven fraternity members. The lawsuit alleges the university failed to protect the victim and punish the accused. Professor Paul Ortiz, who submitted the resolution, stated that faculty have been approached by hundreds of students, alumni, and staff demanding action.
In response to the controversy, New York Governor Kathy Hochul appointed Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor to lead the criminal investigation. Hochul stated she lost faith in Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten after reports emerged that his office declined to review additional evidence from campus police. Michael Kotlikoff, President of Cornell University, has welcomed the independent investigation and promised a further review of the situation.
