Cornell University suspends fraternity social events over gang-rape allegations

Cornell University in the United States has suspended all social events at campus fraternity houses for the remainder of the academic year following allegations that a female student was gang-raped at a fraternity in 2024.

According to CNN, university president Michael I. Kotlikoff announced the decision in a letter to the campus community on Tuesday, October 13.

Kotlikoff said the institution was reviewing its handling of the allegations and introducing additional measures to strengthen support for survivors of sexual assault.

“I have spent the past weeks listening to students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, and trustees, who have shared their feelings of deep connection and sympathy with Jane Doe, anger and frustration that this could happen at Cornell, and outrage at the broader prevalence of sexual violence against women in our society,” he stated.

The suspension affects fraternity social gatherings throughout the remaining academic year.

The university said the measures were intended to address campus safety concerns and improve institutional responses to sexual violence allegations.