Cornell University trustees have appointed a former senior Department of Justice official to oversee an evaluation of the university’s handling of sexual misconduct complaints. Sally Yates, a former deputy attorney general during the Obama administration, will lead the review process. This examination will encompass Cornell’s procedures for investigating reports of sexual assault and harassment, the effectiveness of the disciplinary system, campus police responses, and more.
Amid mounting criticism and protests following allegations of a gang rape at a fraternity house in 2024, trustee chair Anne Meinig Smalling emphasized the importance of Cornell critically evaluating its own practices. The controversy stemmed from a complaint by a woman identified as Jane Doe, who reported to campus police that she had been 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 investigate the handling of the woman’s complaint and the oversight of campus organizations, including fraternities and sororities.
The woman recently filed a lawsuit against the university, former students, the fraternity, and others. Legal representatives for some of the accused students have denied their involvement in the assault. The lawsuit has drawn national attention to the university’s response and the broader issue of campus safety.
New York’s attorney general has initiated a criminal investigation, and the state governor has called for an independent review of Cornell’s handling of the case. The university community has rallied for increased accountability, transparency, and reforms to the disciplinary process.
Yates, known for her extensive career in the Justice Department, gained prominence for her actions during the early days of the Trump administration. She is currently involved in private legal practice, specializing in independent investigations for various organizations. Yates previously led a notable inquiry into misconduct within the National Women’s Soccer League, concluding in 2022 with findings of systemic abuse.
