Cornell Suspends Fraternity Events During Sexual Assault Review

Cornell University has suspended all social events at campus fraternity houses for the rest of the academic year while the school reviews its response to a student's allegation of a gang rape at a fraternity in 2024. President Michael I. Kotlikoff announced the measures in a campus letter.

According to Cornell, the review will include stronger support measures for sexual assault survivors and an examination of university procedures. The school also selected Sally Yates and King & Spalding to conduct an independent review of its handling of the allegations.

Cornell President Michael I. Kotlikoff said the campus community has expressed concern and anger over the case and broader issues involving sexual violence.

"I have spent the past weeks listening to students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, and trustees, who have shared their feelings of deep connection and sympathy with Jane Doe, anger and frustration that this could happen at Cornell, and outrage at the broader prevalence of sexual violence against women in our society," said Michael I. Kotlikoff, Cornell University President.

According to Cornell, the independent review led by Yates will have access to internal documents, including case files, Greek organization oversight records, law enforcement communications and disciplinary hearing records.

"The acting Attorney General, Sally Yates, has betrayed the Department of Justice by refusing to enforce a legal order designed to protect the citizens of the United States," said the White House in a statement.

The statement was issued after Yates was fired by President Donald Trump in 2017 while serving as acting attorney general. Yates had directed Justice Department lawyers not to defend a travel restriction order because she questioned its legality.

"My responsibility is to ensure that the position of the Department of Justice is not only legally defensible, but is informed by our best view of what the law is after consideration of all the facts," said Sally Yates, former acting attorney general.

Yates also wrote about the Justice Department's obligation to pursue legal positions consistent with its institutional duties during the dispute over the executive order.

"In addition, I am responsible for ensuring that the positions we take in court remain consistent with this institution’s solemn obligation to always seek justice and stand for what is right," said Sally Yates, former acting attorney general.

Cornell said it chose Yates and her firm because of their background in institutional investigations. The university previously investigated the alleged assault and imposed suspensions and expulsions on several students accused of involvement.

"Their expertise in higher education and extensive experience conducting independent investigations for boards and institutions," said Cornell University in a statement.

The university said Yates' review will focus on whether Cornell followed its policies and procedures in responding to the allegations involving Jane Doe and members of the Chi Phi fraternity in October 2024.

"As part of that broader mandate, Yates and her team will conduct a detailed review of the university’s response to the allegations involving Jane Doe and members of the Chi Phi fraternity in October 2024, including whether Cornell followed its policies and procedures in responding to the matter," said Cornell University in a statement.