A former Cornell student, Jane Doe, who accused seven men of sexual assault in a lawsuit, wrote a letter to the faculty senate expressing that she felt 'unsupported' and 'disbelieved' by President Michael Kotlikoff. The letter, dated Oct. 14, 2026, describes a comment he allegedly made after she reported being raped at a fraternity house, questioning why she waited so long to report it. Cornell disputed the 'second-hand account' as incorrect, stating the question was directed at bystanders, not her.
Doe, who dropped out after the incident, said his words shook her trust in the administration. Her letter comes as the faculty senate prepares to vote on a no-confidence resolution in Michael Kotlikoff's administration on Oct. 28. The university faces criticism for its handling of the allegations, which include claims she was drugged and gang-raped at a Chi Phi fraternity house.
All accused men have denied wrongdoing and face no criminal charges. The senate has no removal power, but the vote would strongly rebuke Cornell University's leadership, which retains board of trustees support despite calls for resignation.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing