Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff has stated that the institution “must do better” following allegations that a female student was drugged and raped by a group of men at a fraternity house on campus.
In an eight-minute video address released on Saturday, Kotlikoff described the accusations made by the woman, known only as Jane Doe, as “deeply disturbing.” The incident has sparked broader concerns regarding campus culture surrounding substance abuse and the adequacy of the university’s internal investigations.
According to the lawsuit, the alleged assault occurred on October 19, 2024, inside the Chi Phi fraternity house. Jane Doe, who was 20 years old at the time, claims she was intoxicated with alcohol and the drug ketamine and was assaulted by seven men over several hours. She reported the incident to Cornell University police two weeks after it took place, but no criminal charges were filed.
Last month, Jane Doe filed a civil lawsuit against the Ivy League university, alleging that Cornell failed to protect her or adequately punish those involved. She stated in the suit that she was too intoxicated to provide consent.
Kotlikoff emphasized that the university is committed to reviewing how the case was handled. “We must foster a culture in which sexual assault is inexcusable and ensure our community is empowered and understands informed consent,” he said. He added that leaders must create an environment where victims feel safe coming forward and are treated with compassion and dignity.
The president also announced a reevaluation of the role fraternities and sororities play in campus life. “Being part of a group can never diminish individual responsibility for our own actions, for how we treat others, or for speaking up when someone may be at risk,” Kotlikoff stated.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed that she was “deeply disturbed” by the handling of the investigation and has appointed New York Attorney General Letitia James to lead a state-level review. Kotlikoff confirmed he supports James’s appointment to lead a criminal investigation and welcomed an independent review by a law firm into the university’s conduct.
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