Story perspectives

Cornell Faculty Senate backs no-confidence vote over assault case

By Drooid · Oct 6, 2026, 6:16 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Faculty Senate Calls No-Confidence

The Faculty Senate introduced a resolution for a no-confidence vote over the 2024 sexual assault case.
Around 40 of the Senate’s 75 members support the resolution.
President Michael Kotlikoff called the allegations “deeply disturbing.”
He also supported an independent external review of the case.
Gov. Kathy Hochul appointed Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor.

Summary

Campus Police Preserve Data

Title IX investigation expelled two students, suspended two, barred one, and required two reflection papers.
National Chi Phi fraternity permanently expelled Cornell chapter and condemned sexual assault and drug abuse.
Cornell Rugby removed implicated fraternity members from team and alumni network after allegations.
Campus police asked Verizon and T-Mobile to preserve texts and calls, with a warrant due in 30 days.

History

Historical Context

In 2014 the University of Southern California’s sexual-assault scandal triggered a federal Title IX probe that cited roughly 1,000 complaints and resulted in a $1.5 million settlement, forcing the school to overhaul its reporting system. That precedent now frames Cornell’s Faculty Senate push for a no-confidence vote and Governor Kathy Hochul’s appointment of Attorney General Letitia James as prosecutor, with campus police preserving evidence.

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Faculty Senate Calls No-Confidence

The Faculty Senate introduced a resolution for a no-confidence vote over the 2024 sexual assault case.
Around 40 of the Senate’s 75 members support the resolution.
President Michael Kotlikoff called the allegations “deeply disturbing.”
He also supported an independent external review of the case.
Gov. Kathy Hochul appointed Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor.

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