Cornell University faculty members introduced a resolution declaring a no-confidence vote in the university administration’s handling of an alleged 2024 sexual assault at a fraternity house. Submitted to the University Faculty Committee on Monday evening according to a copy obtained by NBC News, the measure states that the Faculty Senate lacks confidence in the central administration’s ability to address an ongoing crisis of sexual assault.
Faculty Resolution Targets Central Administration Response
The resolution measures less than half a page and is expected to be considered by the faculty senate during its Oct. 14 meeting, according to a statement from faculty senator Paul Ortiz. Ortiz, a professor of labor history, stated that the goal is to force systemic change after students reported feeling unsafe over a period of years. Sponsors of the resolution noted that numerous colleagues and alumni had approached faculty members to share traumatic personal stories.
Jane Doe Lawsuit Sparks National Scrutiny
The no-confidence measure marks an escalation in pressure on Cornell following a September civil lawsuit filed by a former student identified as Jane Doe. The plaintiff sued the university and seven current and former students, alleging she was sexually assaulted by multiple fraternity members at the Chi Phi fraternity house in October 2024 while impaired by alcohol, ketamine, and marijuana. The allegations generated national headlines and campus protests over criticisms that the university and local officials failed to adequately investigate the claims.
Leaders defend Title IX processes while lawyers deny allegations
Cornell declined to comment on the proposed resolution. However, Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff and Vice President for Student and Campus Life Ryan Lombardi addressed misconduct concerns during a Monday meeting with the Graduate and Professional Student Assembly, where Kotlikoff stated that the university’s Title IX processes are trauma-informed and that the institution is bound by federal law. Lawyers for several of the accused men have denied the allegations and any wrongdoing, while university officials noted that disciplinary actions led to suspensions and expulsions for some students and that the Chi Phi fraternity remains barred from campus.
Answers to faculty vote and lawsuit questions
When will the Faculty Senate vote on the no-confidence resolution?
The measure is expected to be considered by the faculty senate during its meeting on Oct. 14.
What specific allegations are outlined in the lawsuit?
A former student identified as Jane Doe filed a lawsuit alleging that in October 2024 she was sexually assaulted by multiple fraternity members while she was impaired by alcohol, ketamine, and marijuana.
How has the university responded to the disciplinary concerns?
Cornell officials stated that the university utilized trauma-informed Title IX processes, disciplined individuals involved with suspensions and expulsions, and barred the Chi Phi fraternity from campus, while declining to comment directly on the faculty resolution.
What steps should university leadership take next to address the safety concerns raised by students and faculty members?