Cornell faculty consider no-confidence vote in leadership

The Cornell University Faculty Senate has begun debating a resolution to express no confidence in the university’s central leadership. The move follows intense criticism regarding the administration’s handling of an October 2024 incident involving allegations of gang rape and drugging at a fraternity house.

In a lawsuit, a former student identified as Jane Doe alleged she was coerced into sexual acts by seven former fraternity members. Legal representatives and local prosecutors have raised concerns that a sworn statement prepared by campus police omitted specific rape allegations made during the student's original interview. While President Michael Kotlikoff has acknowledged errors in the school’s response, he has stated he does not plan to resign.

Faculty members expressed significant frustration during a recent Senate meeting, with some professors estimating that 80% of those present had lost confidence in the administration. Although a no-confidence vote is largely symbolic, it serves as a formal signal to the university’s trustees. A final vote on the resolution is scheduled for October 28.