University trustees at Cornell have enlisted the expertise of Sally Yates, a former high-ranking official at the Department of Justice, to conduct a comprehensive review of the university’s handling of sexual misconduct complaints. The review, led by Yates, will assess various aspects of how Cornell manages reports of sexual assault and harassment, including the investigative procedures, disciplinary processes, and responses by campus police.
In response to mounting criticism following allegations of a gang rape at a fraternity house in 2024, trustee chair Anne Meinig Smalling emphasized the importance of Cornell’s commitment to self-examination with thoroughness and accountability.
The decision to bring in Yates for the review follows public outcry and a significant demonstration regarding Cornell’s response to a complaint from an individual identified only as Jane Doe. The woman reported to campus police in November 2024 that she had been sexually assaulted by several members of the Chi Phi fraternity following coercion 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 investigate the handling of the woman’s complaint and the oversight of campus organizations, including fraternities and sororities. The woman filed a lawsuit last month against the university, former students, the fraternity, and others involved.
In response to the lawsuit, lawyers for two of the former students denied any involvement in the alleged assault, while attempts to reach the other individuals or their representatives were unsuccessful. Court records reveal that during Cornell’s investigation under the federal Title IX law, some of the accused students claimed the sexual activity was consensual.
The lawsuit has drawn national attention to the allegations and the responses of campus authorities, the university, and local law enforcement. The New York Attorney General has initiated a criminal investigation, and the state governor has called for an independent review of Cornell’s handling of the situation, now to be led by Yates.
Cornell’s students, faculty, and supporters gathered on campus to protest the university’s handling of the matter, demanding increased accountability, transparency, reform of disciplinary procedures, and other changes.
Yates, known for her extensive career at the Justice Department, gained prominence for her actions as acting attorney general during the early days of the Trump administration. She will now bring her investigative expertise to scrutinize Cornell’s response to the allegations of sexual misconduct.
In addition to her government service, Yates has conducted high-profile inquiries into abuse and misconduct, as seen in her investigation into the National Women’s Soccer League, which revealed systemic abuse issues in 2022.