Cornell freezes Greek house socials through the school year

Greek social life at Cornell just hit a hard pause. House parties inside Interfraternity Council buildings are off until the academic year ends.

Kotlikoff draws a bright line

President Michael Kotlikoff told the campus in a Tuesday letter that IFC houses may not host parties or indoor social events for the rest of 2026-2027. The order follows the outcry around an alleged 2024 gang rape tied to Greek life.

Break the rule and the chapter faces an immediate suspension. Kotlikoff framed the freeze as time to ask whether fraternity life can keep going without putting students at risk.

A wider substance problem

He described alcohol and drug abuse on campus as deeply disturbing and said the problem is not confined to Greek organizations. He also apologized to Jane Doe for the alleged 2024 harm, calling himself appalled that sexual violence reportedly happened in the Cornell community and admitting the school has fallen short.

Outside investigators while Yates reviews policy

Cornell wants New York State Police help bringing in independent investigators for sexual assault claims and plans to expand survivor support.

Jane Doe's lawsuit says she was drugged and assaulted by seven fraternity members at a campus house in October 2024. A separate policy review led by ex-federal prosecutor Sally Yates is still underway. Kotlikoff said the school will not wait for that report before changing course.