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The Cornell University Faculty Senate has approved a vote of no confidence in the administration's handling of sexual assault allegations, according to NBC News. The resolution, passed on Friday (November 6), criticizes the university's response to an alleged sexual assault at the Chi Phi fraternity house in 2024. The vote was 75 in favor, 50 against, with five abstentions.
The resolution states that the faculty senate "has no confidence in the ability of the central administration to effectively address the ongoing crisis of sexual assault at Cornell University." Despite the vote's symbolic nature, it increases pressure on university leaders to address transparency and accountability issues.
Anne Meinig Smalling, chair of the Board of Trustees, expressed continued support for President Michael Kotlikoff and his administration. "The Board of Trustees remains confident that President Kotlikoff and his administration are the right leaders to thoughtfully and comprehensively address the serious problem of sexual assault on our campus," Smalling said, highlighting recent changes such as adding staff to the Cornell Office of Civil Rights and expanding sexual assault prevention education.
The vote follows a lawsuit filed by a former student, identified as Jane Doe, who alleged she was sexually assaulted and forced to take drugs at the fraternity house. The lawsuit has led to criticism of the university and calls for reform from students and alumni. Jane Doe's attorney, Thomas Giuffra, expressed hope that the vote would lead to further education and support for the Cornell community.
The controversy has intensified scrutiny of Kotlikoff, who has urged faculty to allow time for reforms. The vote comes as Cornell faces broader pressure over its handling of sexual assault allegations on campus. New York Attorney General Letitia James is overseeing a separate criminal investigation into Doe’s 2024 case.