In a recent letter to Cornell University’s faculty senate, a student known as Jane Doe has voiced serious concerns regarding the university’s handling of her allegations of sexual assault. The letter, which has garnered attention, recounts an encounter between Doe and President Michael Kotlikoff, where he seemingly questioned her decision to report her experiences of gang rape months after the incident.
According to the letter, which was acquired by NBC News, Doe detailed a conversation relayed to her by the president of her sorority, Tri Delta. This conversation took place shortly after Doe reported her assault to the university. She claims that President Kotlikoff’s remarks were interpreted as casting doubt on her decision to report the incident, stating, “Why did she wait so long to report it?”
Cornell University has pushed back against this characterization, asserting that Kotlikoff’s question was directed at bystanders who had not reported the incident, rather than questioning Doe’s credibility. In a statement, the university emphasized that the context of the meeting was misunderstood.
This letter comes at a time when the university’s administration faces increasing scrutiny for its response to Doe’s allegations, alongside a budding discussion among faculty about a potential vote of no confidence against the administration. Recently, Cornell appointed former acting U.S. Attorney General Sally Yates to oversee an independent review of the university’s policies regarding sexual misconduct.
Doe’s civil lawsuit against seven members of the now-dissolved Chi Phi fraternity alleges that she was drugged and assaulted at a party in October 2024. Following the lawsuit, which has drawn significant attention, Cornell conducted its own investigation, leading to the expulsion of two students and sanctions against others.
In her letter, Doe expressed feelings of being unsupported and disbelieved by the administration, stating that the president’s response diminished her confidence in Cornell’s ability to handle such sensitive matters with the necessary understanding and fairness. She has now taken the step to share her account, hoping to ensure that faculty members are fully informed as they deliberate on the administration’s performance.
As the university grapples with the implications of this situation, it remains to be seen how the faculty senate will respond, and what further actions will be taken in light of Doe’s allegations and the broader issues of campus safety and support for survivors of sexual assault.
Photo credit: Heather Ainsworth
