Full Breakdown
Cornell Appoints Former Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates to Review Sexual-Assault Handling
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Independent Review Launched
On October 6, 2026, Cornell University announced that former U.S. Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates, now a partner at King & Spalding, will lead an independent review of the university’s policies for preventing and responding to sexual harassment, assault, and related misconduct. The review will examine Cornell’s response to allegations by a student identified as “Jane Doe” concerning a gang-rape at the Chi Phi fraternity house in October 2024.
Background & Context
Jane Doe reported to campus police that she had been assaulted by multiple Chi Phi members after being pressured to drink and take drugs. A month-long Title IX investigation followed, the Chi Phi chapter was shut down, and several members were expelled or suspended. Jane Doe filed a civil lawsuit in September 2025 against the university, seven former students, the fraternity and its national organization. New York Attorney General Letitia James has opened a criminal investigation, with Governor Kathy Hochul appointing the AG’s office as special prosecutor.
Data & Statistics
- Alleged assault: October 2024 at a Chi Phi party.
- Lawsuit filed: September 2025, naming seven former fraternity members.
- University sanctions: expulsions, suspensions, and closure of the Chi Phi chapter.
- Criminal charges: None filed to date.
Official Statements & Responses
Cornell’s Special Committee of the Board of Trustees, chaired by Anne Meinig Smalling, said the review will assess policies, investigative procedures, student-support services, disciplinary processes, campus-police coordination, and Board oversight. The university emphasized that Yates will have “full independence” and will report findings directly to the committee.
President Michael Kotlikoff called the case a “defining moment” for the university on October 3, 2026, urging Cornell to “do better.”
Attorney General Letitia James’ office confirmed it is conducting a criminal investigation, noting that the Tompkins County district attorney had previously declined to bring charges.
Criticism & Opposition
Ithaca Mayor Robert G. Cantelmo warned that the situation “poses a significant threat to students and residents.”
Professor Risa L. Lieberwitz, a labor-and-employment law professor, argued that hiring an external investigator does not guarantee institutional change and urged inclusion of expert educators.
David Bateman, president of Cornell’s AAUP chapter, expressed skepticism, citing past investigations that were perceived as cover-ups.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Sally Yates brings extraordinary experience, independence and judgment to this work,” — Anne Meinig Smalling, special committee chair
- “In addition, the involved fraternity chapter was closed in 2024 and remains barred from campus,” — Kyle Kimball, vice president for university relations
What’s Next
The committee indicated that the results will be shared with the Cornell community. The criminal investigation by the New York Attorney General’s office will continue in parallel.