Sexual assault lawsuit at Cornell University: Rector will not resign

Debates about the alleged sexual assault that allegedly occurred at Cornell University in the United States were reignited after the lawsuit filed in September. Speaking to The New York Times, President Michael Kotlikoff said the incident upset him, adding that he does not intend to resign.

Claims concerning a student referred to as 'Jane Doe' in the case file, who requested that her identity remain undisclosed for security reasons, have also sparked debate about the university administration's stance on the incident.

President Acknowledged He Was Informed About the Incident

Kotlikoff said he learned about the plaintiff student's experience in November 2024, but thereafter did not maintain contact with the student and did not act at that time.

Kotlikoff acknowledged that trust in the university had been damaged, saying he was personally saddened by the events. He emphasized that this would not lead him to resign.

The president also reported that a task force was established in February 2025 to combat sexual assaults, and that orientation training on responsibilities has begun for students newly enrolling at the university.

The Case File Contains Serious Allegations

In the lawsuit filed in September, it was alleged that a 20‑year‑old female student was sexually assaulted in a Cornell University student dormitory in 2024.

According to the allegations in the complaint, the student was forcibly given ketamine while intoxicated, and after losing consciousness she was sexually assaulted by seven male students. While those allegations are being considered in the judicial process, it is noted that the charges do not amount to a finalized conviction.

It was reported that the university administration had reported the investigation it was conducting at the time to the district prosecutor's office, but the prosecutor did not file a case on the grounds of insufficient evidence.

New York Governor Appoints Special Prosecutor

New York Governor Kathy Hochul, in a statement on October 2, said she had lost confidence that Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten, who was responsible for the area where the incident occurred, could oversee the investigation fairly.

Hochul appointed New York Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor to review the file. This move has reignited debate over how the incident was handled.

Restrictions on Social Events at the University

Following the incident, it was reported that parties and social events held in student houses on campus were cancelled through the end of the year.

Cornell's measures to combat sexual assaults and the rector's decision to remain in office continue to occupy the center of discussions on security, accountability, and student rights at the university.