Cornell faculty pass no-confidence vote against top leaders

Resolution passed by senate

The Faculty Senate voted 75 to 50 on the measure while five senators abstained and five did not vote. This electronic voting process took place over more than a week before results were released Friday afternoon. Backers of the resolution stated they hoped the symbolic gesture would pressure the board of trustees to address institutional failures.

Context of student lawsuit

A former student filed a lawsuit in mid-September alleging she was given ketamine and raped at a Chi Phi fraternity house in October 2024. Seven men are named in the suit, though all have denied the allegations claiming consent or lack of involvement. The local district attorney initially found no crime but reopened the investigation and handed it to New York's attorney general.

Disciplinary actions taken

Cornell disciplined several accused students after a months-long Title IX investigation resulted in two expulsions, two suspensions with probation, and other penalties. A seventh man who had already graduated was barred from campus according to records obtained by The New York Times. President Michael Kotlikoff convened a taskforce to study sexual misconduct which released certain recommendations regarding campus safety.

Responses from officials

Board chair Anne Smalling said the vote reflects deep anger but affirmed that President Kotlikoff and his administration are the right leaders. Thomas Giuffra, the woman's attorney, expressed hope that this step will educate the community and support victims of sexual assault. Some faculty members remain furious with the president for not acting more forcefully to change campus party culture.