Cornell president to review fraternities and sororities after rape allegations

Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff announced that the institution will conduct a comprehensive review of the role of fraternities and sororities on campus following a civil lawsuit alleging a gang‑rape incident involving members of the Chi Phi fraternity. In an eight‑minute video message to the Cornell community, Kotlikoff said the past week’s events have raised questions about how the university handled the original allegations and that steps will be taken to prevent a similar situation in the future.

The lawsuit, filed last month by a woman identified in court documents as Jane Doe, claims she was pressured into consuming illicit drugs and alcohol that left her incapacitated, after which several Chi Phi members allegedly raped her in 2024. According to investigation records obtained by a major newspaper, the victim told a police officer she was “100 percent confident” she had been raped, a statement that was omitted from the official police report forwarded to prosecutors. The prosecutors subsequently dropped the criminal case.

Doe’s civil complaint names the seven fraternity members involved, the Chi Phi fraternity itself, Cornell University, an Ithaca bar and other parties, and seeks undisclosed damages. The suit alleges that the university failed to adequately punish some of the accused students. Cornell’s own investigation resulted in the expulsion of several students and the suspension of others, though the details of those sanctions have not been fully disclosed.

Kotlikoff emphasized that while Greek organizations can provide “friendship, belonging, mentorship and a powerful sense of community,” participation in such groups does not diminish individual responsibility. He said the university will seek input from students, alumni and other stakeholders on how to preserve the positive aspects of Greek life while strengthening accountability, transparency and a culture that prioritizes safety and well‑being.

The president indicated that the forthcoming review will examine how fraternities and sororities operate within campus life and will consider reforms aimed at ensuring that every member understands their duty to protect others. The university has not set a timeline for the review’s completion, but the statement signals a heightened focus on addressing concerns raised by the allegations and the broader campus community.