In brief
Cornell University announced a ban on all parties held at fraternity houses after a 2024 lawsuit alleged a drug‑fueled rape. President Michael Kotlikoff said the move was a response to criticism that the university had mishandled the assault. The university will suspend any student who violates the new policy and plans to strengthen support for sexual‑assault survivors. The decision is part of broader efforts to overhaul campus safety and comply with Title IX mandates.
Cornell University has banned all parties at fraternity houses for the remainder of the academic year. The decision follows a civil lawsuit filed last month by a woman—known only as Jane Doe—who claims she was drugged and raped by several men at a 2024 party on a campus fraternity property.
In a statement on Tuesday, President Michael Kotlikoff said, “I am deeply sorry for the harm Jane Doe suffered in 2024, and I am appalled that this act of sexual violence occurred within our Cornell community.” He added that the ban was a response to criticism of how the university and local authorities handled the case.
Chief of Police’s lawyer Thomas Giuffra said the steps announced were “helpful … but too late to protect Ms. Doe.” The president affirmed that any student contravening the new fraternity‑party policy would face suspension. He also announced an expansion of staff dedicated to helping survivors report sexual misconduct under Title IX guidance.
Cornell’s response has been questioned after revelations that a local district attorney’s office received only a six‑page statement from the victim and a handful of Snapchat messages advertising a free sexual encounter. Governor Kathy Hochul has asked Attorney General Letitia James to investigate the case.
The university will also bring in national sexual‑violence prevention experts to review campus‑wide risk factors and develop responsible‑citizenship strategies. “These steps are the first toward systematic change on campus,” President Kotlikoff said.
