Cornell University's president, Michael Kotlikoff, described the alleged gang rape of a student at a fraternity house in 2024 as "deeply disturbing" during a video message to the university community on Saturday. He stated that the incident would have lasting implications for the university and pledged to enhance transparency following criticism of the school's response to the case.
In his eight-minute address, Kotlikoff referred to the past week as one of the most challenging in the university's history and acknowledged significant concerns regarding the investigations that followed the allegations. "My heart aches when I think of what she experienced," he remarked, highlighting issues related to sexual assault, dehumanization, and the culture surrounding parties, alcohol, and drug use.
Kotlikoff reaffirmed his support for an independent review of the university's handling of the case, as requested by New York Governor Kathy Hochul, and indicated that the Board of Trustees would provide further details next week. He also supported Hochul's decision to transfer the criminal investigation to the state attorney general.
During a student assembly hearing on Thursday, attendees expressed their concerns and proposed improvements to Cornell's response to sexual assault, with some calling for Kotlikoff's resignation. When asked about this at a news conference, Hochul refrained from taking a position, citing insufficient information.
Kotlikoff acknowledged that Cornell's communication has been lacking, which has contributed to distrust among the community. He committed to increasing transparency and providing more opportunities for engagement with university leaders, while also recognizing the legal and privacy constraints that limit what can be disclosed.
He expressed support for legislative efforts aimed at reforming New York's sexual assault laws, which have come under scrutiny in light of the case. The law currently complicates prosecutions involving individuals who voluntarily consume alcohol or drugs, even if they become too intoxicated to consent. Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten defended his decision not to pursue charges based on the woman's initial police statement, which mentioned voluntary drug use and sexual activity.
Critics have called for closing the so-called "voluntary intoxication loophole" that differentiates between individuals incapacitated by non-consensual drug administration and those who voluntarily intoxicate themselves. Hochul has committed to advocating for changes to this law.
Kotlikoff also emphasized the need for a thorough examination of the role of fraternities and sororities in campus life, stating that Cornell would engage students, alumni, and other stakeholders to find ways to maintain the positive aspects of Greek life while enhancing accountability and transparency. "Being part of a group can never diminish individual responsibility for our own actions, for how we treat others or for speaking up when someone may be at risk," he concluded.