Cornell University announced significant policy changes addressing campus sexual violence and substance abuse culture. The university implemented a moratorium on parties and social events hosted by fraternities for the rest of the school year and committed to integrating sexual assault investigators into its police unit. These actions follow a civil lawsuit filed by a former student alleging gang rape involving members of the Chi Phi fraternity in October of 2024.
University President Michael I. Kotlikoff stated in a letter to the campus that the institution takes responsibility for failing to protect its community and acknowledged that women on campus continue to question their safety. The lawsuit, filed nearly one month prior to the announcement, alleged the student was administered ketamine and assaulted by fraternity members. Public disclosure of details regarding the incident, including crude communications among fraternity members, generated significant national attention and controversy.
The administration’s response came amid campus protests organized by student groups and an anticipated no-confidence vote by the faculty senate. While some observers characterized the measures as necessary steps, others described them as insufficient to address systemic issues. A sophomore protest organizer called the changes a “half measure,” and an associate professor noted the two-year delay between when administrators learned of the allegations and when these reforms were announced.
Beyond the fraternity moratorium, Cornell outlined additional initiatives including enhanced survivor services, expanded bystander training, and collaboration with New York State Police on criminal investigations. The university also plans to involve faculty experts in sexual assault prevention to reform its Presidential Task Force on Sexual Assault. These reforms affect approximately one-third of the student body who participate in Greek life organizations.
The university’s Title IX office had previously conducted an investigation in 2025, resulting in expulsion or suspension recommendations for some individuals involved, along with additional sanctions. The Chi Phi fraternity chapter was closed in 2024. University leadership stated its commitment to establishing higher standards for education, oversight, and enforcement of safe social behavior across the institution.
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