Cornell University has announced a suspension of all social events and parties within Interfraternity Council (IFC) houses for the remainder of the 2026-2027 academic year. The decision follows intense public and campus backlash regarding the university's handling of a 2024 incident in which a student, identified as Jane Doe, alleged she was drugged and gang-raped by several fraternity members.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff expressed remorse for the harm suffered by the student, stating, "I am deeply sorry for the harm Jane Doe suffered" and acknowledging that "this act of sexual violence occurred within our Cornell community." He emphasized that the university would enforce a "zero tolerance" policy, meaning any fraternity found hosting an in-house party or social event will face immediate suspension.
The move comes after a lawsuit filed in September by the survivor alleged that she had been "plied with alcohol and drugs to the point of intoxication" by fraternity members. While the university had previously disciplined certain students, no criminal charges were brought against those involved, leading to widespread protests and accusations that the institution failed to provide sufficient accountability.
"It is clear that women on our campus continue to question whether they are safe. We must meet this moment by acknowledging where we have fallen short and taking meaningful action," Kotlikoff said. To address these concerns, the university has appointed former US Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates to lead an independent and comprehensive review of the school's response to the allegations.
The president noted that the administration cannot wait for the findings of that review to implement change. Additional measures include the appointment of a dedicated case manager to assist those reporting sexual misconduct and a partnership with the New York State Police, allowing criminal investigators to probe any future sexual assault allegations on the Ithaca campus.
