‘Is this too little, too late?’: Cornell students on school’s response to gang-rape allegations

17 October 2026 at 07:00

Students say the school is more interested in scapegoating fraternities than in committing to institutional change

In the wake of a lawsuit over an alleged gang-rape that took place at Cornell University in 2024, the school announced this week that it would be suspending parties and social gatherings at fraternity houses for the remainder of the academic year.

Last month, a former student, referred to in court documents by the pseudonym “Jane Doe”, filed a civil lawsuit against multiple parties, including the university, accusing seven members of the Chi Phi fraternity of sexually assaulting her at a party at their fraternity house on campus in October 2024. All of the men named in the lawsuit have denied wrongdoing, and none have been criminally charged.

Cornell president acknowledges he knew about fraternity sexual assault but didn’t follow up

The Guardian

By: Anna Betts

14 October 2026 at 12:30

Michael Kotlikoff addressed his administration’s handling of the 2024 allegations as he faces calls for his resignation

Michael Kotlikoff, the president of Cornell University, has spoken to the New York Times about sexual assault allegations at the school, acknowledging for the first time that he knew a student had reported being sexually assaulted in November 2024, but did not follow up with the Jane Doe involved in the months after learning about the alleged assault.

He also revealed that he did not know she had dropped out of Cornell until she filed a lawsuit last month.

Information and support for anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse issues is available from the following organizations. In the US, Rainn offers support on 800-656-4673. In the UK, Rape Crisis offers support on 0808 500 2222. In Australia, support is available at 1800Respect (1800 737 732). Other international helplines can be found at ibiblio.org/rcip/internl.html

Cornell suspends fraternity parties amid backlash over alleged sexual assault

The Guardian

By: Guardian staff and agencies

13 October 2026 at 14:16

University bans parties at frat houses for rest of academic year to conduct ‘thorough review’ of campus Greek life

Cornell University has announced that it is suspending parties and other social gatherings at fraternity houses for the rest of the academic year amid intensifying backlash over its handling of allegations that a female student was sexually assaulted at a fraternity house in 2024.

The university has also said that Cornell will involve New York state police in investigating sex crimes on campus.

Why Ketamine Immobilizes Some Users

NYT: Science

By: Andrew Jacobs

10 October 2026 at 16:38

Potent powders can produce a nearly catatonic state, particularly in those who have not tried the drug before.

Ketamine is a useful sedative and antidepressant at light doses. At stronger doses, it is a powerful anesthetic, but at repeated high doses, it deadens sensation, leaving users conscious but unable to act.

Cornell’s Jane Doe Said She Was Given Ketamine. Here’s How the Drug Works.

NYT: Science

By: Andrew Jacobs

1 October 2026 at 17:08

Ketamine is a short-acting anesthetic that can have hallucinogenic effects. It is becoming more easily available, and some experts fear misuse is increasing.

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