Cornell suspends fraternity parties following sexual assault allegations

Cornell University President Michael I. Kotlikoff announced on October 13, 2026, that all parties and social events in Interfraternity Council (IFC) houses will be suspended for the remainder of the 2026-2027 academic year. The measure is part of a series of immediate actions intended to strengthen campus safety and support survivors following allegations of sexual violence and subsequent campus protests.

Suspension of Fraternity Events

According to a statement from the university, the suspension applies to all IFC houses. "There will be zero tolerance for violations of this directive," the statement reads. "Any fraternity holding an in-house party or social event will receive an immediate emergency suspension."

DW reports that the university has more than 20 active fraternities organized under its Interfraternity Council. It is not clear whether the suspension extends to parties held outside the campus. Kotlikoff stated that the measures are designed to "provide time for a thorough review of fraternity life at Cornell to determine whether and how it can safely continue."

Response to 2024 Allegations

The announcement follows a lawsuit filed in September by a woman who alleges she was drugged and sexually assaulted by multiple members of the Chi Phi fraternity in October 2024. According to the lawsuit, messages stating she was sexually available were sent among fraternity members without her knowledge. All seven men mentioned in the lawsuit have denied the allegations.

The case initially drew criticism after the Tompkins County district attorney declined to prosecute. The investigation is now being handled by New York Attorney General Letitia James. Additionally, an independent review led by former U.S. Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates will examine Cornell’s policies and practices.

New Support Measures

Kotlikoff outlined several steps to improve support for survivors. The university will add staff to the Cornell Office of Civil Rights, including a dedicated Case Manager to assist individuals reporting sexual misconduct with navigating university processes such as financial aid and housing.

Cornell is also working with the New York State Police to allow their investigators, who are independent of the university, to investigate allegations of sexual assault on campus. "These individuals will interview survivors who elect to pursue criminal charges and will prepare comprehensive investigative summaries for the appropriate law enforcement agency," the university statement says.

Furthermore, the university plans to engage students and faculty experts to develop "safe social alternatives" to Greek life party culture and will invest resources in establishing these initiatives.

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Sources

• statements.cornell.edu: Immediate measures to strengthen campus safety and better support survivors | University Statements | Cornell University
• dw.com: Cornell suspends frat parties after gang rape case

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.