The Ivy League campus in Ithaca is now under the microscope of a former federal prosecutor. Cornell University announced that it has retained Sally Yates a former U.S. Deputy Attorney General, to conduct a comprehensive, independent review of how the institution prevents and responds to sexual harassment, sexual assault, and related misconduct.
The move follows a civil suit filed in mid-September by a former student, identified only as Jane Doe. The complaint alleges that seven men from the Chi Phi fraternity drugged and gang-raped her in October 2024 at the fraternity house. While criminal charges have never been filed, Cornell is named as a defendant, and students have staged protests demanding accountability.
Scope of the independent review
The newly formed Special Committee of the Cornell University Board of Trustees will oversee Yates’ investigation. Committee chair Anne Meinig Smalling explained that Yates brings “extraordinary experience, independence and judgment” to the effort. The review will survey every facet of Cornell’s approach, including:
- How reports of sexual misconduct are received, investigated, and adjudicated.
- The availability and quality of support services for survivors.
- The role and procedures of Cornell University Police and coordination with external law-enforcement agencies.
- Oversight of fraternities, sororities, and other student organizations under the Campus SaVE Act and related statutes.
- Compliance with federal mandates such as Title IX and the Clery Act, as well as New York State law.
Yates and her team from King & Spalding LLP will have full independence, accessing policy documents, case files, personnel records, and leaders as required by law and privacy rules. Their findings and recommendations will be reported directly to the Special Committee, which intends to share the results with the entire Cornell community.
Background of the Jane Doe lawsuit
According to the complaint, the alleged assault took place in October 2024 at the Chi Phi fraternity house on campus. The plaintiff claims that the men involved drugged her and then assaulted her for several hours. The university’s response included a Title IX investigation that led to suspensions and expulsions, but the plaintiff argues that the process was insufficient and that the institution failed to protect her.
No criminal charges have been filed against the alleged perpetrators, and the men named in the lawsuit deny any wrongdoing. Nevertheless, the case has sparked a broader conversation about consent and campus safety, prompting New York Governor Kathy Hochul to appoint Attorney General Letitia James to launch a criminal investigation into the incident.
Student and public reaction
Following the lawsuit, Cornell students organized rallies, occupied Ho Plaza, and demanded changes to Title IX processes. The national media spotlight intensified scrutiny of how universities handle sexual violence, and Cornell’s leadership faced criticism for its handling of both the police investigation and the internal Title IX response.
Composition of the Special Committee
The review will be guided by a diverse group of trustees: Chair Anne Meinig Smalling, along with Jennifer L. Davis, Tara Holm, Howard L. Morgan Ph.D., Beckie Robertson, Stephen C. Robinson, Esq., Martin F. Scheinman, Esq., and Robert W. Selander. Their mandate is not only to assess the Jane Doe case but also to evaluate Cornell’s
Smalling emphasized the importance of self-examination, stating, “It is imperative that Cornell be willing to examine itself with the same rigor we expect of others. We want to understand not just what happened in 2024, but how Cornell can become a leader in preventing sexual violence, supporting those who come forward and responding to allegations rigorously, fairly and compassionately.”
With Yates’ extensive background—having served as Acting Attorney General and previously leading independent investigations for U.S. Soccer—Cornell hopes the review will result in actionable recommendations that restore trust and enhance campus safety.
