Former Department of Justice official Sally Yates has been appointed by Cornell University trustees to conduct a review of the institution’s handling of sexual misconduct complaints. The move comes in response to public outrage following allegations of a gang rape at a fraternity house in 2024. The review will encompass Cornell’s protocols for investigating sexual assault and harassment, disciplinary procedures, campus police responses, and more.
Trustee chair Anne Meinig Smalling emphasized the importance of Cornell critically evaluating its own processes, alongside external expectations. This decision follows widespread condemnation and protests over the university’s handling of a complaint by an individual identified as Jane Doe, who reported being sexually assaulted by multiple members of the Chi Phi fraternity after being coerced into consuming alcohol and drugs.
While no criminal charges have been filed, Cornell took action by closing the Chi Phi chapter, expelling some students, and suspending others. Yates will specifically examine the handling of the woman’s complaint and oversee the governance of fraternities, sororities, and other campus organizations at Cornell.
The victim has filed a lawsuit against the university, former students, the fraternity, and others. Legal representatives for some of the accused deny their involvement in the assault, with court records revealing differing accounts regarding the nature of the alleged sexual activity. The lawsuit has drawn national attention to the incident and the responses of campus authorities and law enforcement.
New York’s Attorney General has initiated a criminal investigation into the matter, while the state governor has called for an independent assessment of Cornell’s actions. In response, students, faculty, and supporters rallied on campus, demanding increased accountability, transparency, and reforms to the disciplinary system.
Yates, known for her extensive career in the Justice Department, including a notable tenure as acting attorney general during the Trump administration, will lead the review. She has a background in conducting independent investigations, as demonstrated by her prior involvement in high-profile inquiries, such as the examination of misconduct in the National Women’s Soccer League.
This initiative underscores Cornell’s commitment to addressing concerns raised by the community and ensuring a thorough evaluation of its policies and practices related to sexual misconduct.
