Cornell President Addresses Alleged Frat Gang Rape Amid Growing Outrage

Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff addressed the alleged gang rape of a student at a fraternity house in 2024, calling the incident deeply disturbing and acknowledging that the past week has been one of the hardest in the institution's history.

The remarks followed mounting outrage and a lawsuit filed against the university and seven former students by the victim. During a recent student assembly hearing, multiple speakers voiced frustration and called for Kotlikoff to resign.

Kotlikoff expressed support for New York Governor Kathy Hochul's decision to shift the criminal investigation to the state attorney general. He also reaffirmed the university's backing of an independent review ordered by the governor, with details to be announced by the Board of Trustees.

The controversy has renewed focus on a state law that makes prosecuting sexual assaults difficult when individuals voluntarily consume alcohol or drugs. Governor Hochul has pledged to push for legislative changes to address this loophole.

Additionally, the university president called for a thorough examination of Greek life on campus to strengthen accountability and transparency. Kotlikoff also acknowledged communication shortcomings by the administration and promised greater transparency moving forward.