Cornell University has suspended all fraternity house parties through the end of the 2026/27 academic year, the university announced Tuesday.
This follows the case in which a woman was allegedly drugged and sexually assaulted by several members of the Chi Phi fraternity in October 2024, with the university’s response to the gang rape allegations now drawing criticism from across the country and abroad.
The new measures include a new “zero tolerance” policy for violations, which would result in the immediate suspension of a chapter.
University President Michael Kotlikoff said the measures were intended to “provide time for a thorough review of fraternity life” at Cornell while determining how it can continue safely. The university has more than 20 active fraternities organized under its Interfraternity Council.
It is unclear whether the suspension also includes parties that take place off campus.
More support for victims
As part of these measures, Cornell must speak with students and faculty experts about “developing safe social alternatives” to Greek party culture, as well as invest the necessary money to support the implementation of these initiatives, Kotlikoff said.
Cornell’s president also said the institution would add a case manager to its Office for Civil Rights to assist people who report sexual misconduct and help them navigate the process.
Campus police, which have full law enforcement powers but are controlled by Cornell, are largely responsible for investigating crimes committed at the university. However, Kotlikoff announced that Cornell would work closely with the New York State Police to enable an investigation independent of the school.
Decision not to prosecute criticized
The 2024 gang rape allegations were first investigated by campus police, who then referred their initial findings to the Tompkins County District Attorney, who did not pursue charges — a decision that was later widely criticized.
The woman filed a lawsuit in September, in which she claimed she was drugged and sexually assaulted by several fraternity members after attending a Chi Phi house party in October 2024.
According to the lawsuit, messages saying she was sexually available were sent between fraternity members without her knowledge.
After learning of the matter, Cornell closed the fraternity’s chapter and disciplined several students, without any criminal charges being filed.
All seven men named in the lawsuit have denied the allegations.
After the case became public and attracted widespread criticism, the investigation is now in the hands of New York Attorney General Letitia James. The university’s response will be reviewed by former Assistant U.S. Attorney General Sally Yates.
Editing: Zac Crellin
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