10
Loading video...
By Hannah Parry
Associate News Editor
0
Share
Newsweek is a Trust Project member
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Cornell University's Faculty Senate approved a vote of no confidence in university administrators on Friday amid mounting criticism over the school's handling of sexual assault allegations.
The vote follows weeks of debate over the university's response to a lawsuit accusing Cornell of mishandling an investigation into an alleged 2024 fraternity gang rape.
Friday's vote is non-binding and does not have the power to remove school president Michael Kotlikoff or other administrators. Only Cornell's Board of Trustees can make that decision.
Read More on News
Labor History Professor Paul Ortiz introduced the resolution in October, arguing that the case involving an alleged victim identified as Jane Doe raised broader concerns about how the university handles sexual assault complaints. More than a dozen Faculty Senate members co-sponsored the resolution, while more than 160 faculty members across the university expressed support.
Opponents argued that faculty did not have sufficient information to evaluate the university's handling of the allegations.
In response to the controversy, Cornell hired former acting U.S. Attorney General Sally Yates to conduct an independent review of its sexual assault policies and procedures.
Meanwhile, New York Attorney General Letitia James is overseeing a criminal investigation into the allegations after being appointed by Governor Kathy Hochul. James recently selected former federal prosecutor Jacqueline Kelly to lead the investigation.
The faculty vote comes as pressure on Cornell's leadership continues to grow, with students and faculty groups also calling for Kotlikoff's resignation.
This is breaking news, updates to follow.
...
View 0 Comments
Submit Correction
View Editorial & AI Guidelines