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Politics · October 20, 2026

Cornell’s Jane Doe Sent Letter to Faculty Senate Ahead of Vote

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A former Cornell University student, identified as Jane Doe, sent a letter to the school's Faculty Senate alleging that Interim President Michael Kotlikoff questioned the timing of her 2024 sexual assault report. The letter, based on a second-hand account of a meeting, arrives as the Faculty Senate considers a vote of no-confidence in Kotlikoff’s administration. Cornell University has disputed the claim, stating that Kotlikoff's question regarding reporting delays was directed toward bystanders who failed to use anonymous tip lines rather than at the victim herself. The incident is currently part of a broader civil lawsuit and an independent review led by former Acting Attorney General Sally Yates.

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Reported across the spectrum

  • Jane Doe sent a letter to the Cornell Faculty Senate detailing a second-hand account of a conversation involving President Michael Kotlikoff.
  • The Faculty Senate is currently considering a no-confidence vote regarding the university administration.
  • Jane Doe alleged that Kotlikoff questioned why she waited to report the assault, which she interpreted as doubt.
  • Cornell University issued a statement disputing the characterization, claiming the president's question was about bystander reporting.
  • A former Chi Phi fraternity president was recently dropped from Jane Doe's civil lawsuit due to a case of mistaken identity regarding his role at the time of the incident.

Reported by only some outlets

  • Jane Doe reported the alleged assault to campus police on Nov. 8, 2024, approximately three weeks after it occurred.
  • Cornell hired Sally Yates to lead an independent review of the school's response to the allegations.
  • The University Dean of Faculty, Chris Schaffer, faced internal criticism for not disclosing the receipt of the letter sooner.
  • Cornell’s Title IX process previously resulted in the expulsion of two students and suspensions for others related to this case.

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