Cornell University has announced the suspension of parties and other social gatherings at fraternity houses for the remainder of the academic year. This decision comes amid increasing criticism regarding the university's handling of allegations that a female student was sexually assaulted at a fraternity house in 2024.
The university's president, Michael Kotlikoff, stated that these measures will allow for a thorough review of fraternity life at Cornell. The suspension, which applies to houses governed by Cornell’s interfraternity council, is subject to a “zero tolerance” policy.
Cornell has also committed to involving New York state police in investigating sex crimes on campus, moving away from previous investigations handled by the university's campus police force. Additionally, a case manager will be added to Cornell’s office of civil rights to assist those reporting sexual misconduct.
A civil lawsuit filed in September by a woman identified as Jane Doe alleges she was assaulted at Cornell’s Chi Phi fraternity house. New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced on 2 October that State Attorney General Letitia James would take over Jane Doe’s case as a special prosecutor, with the potential to present evidence to a grand jury for criminal charges.