Cornell University Taps Sally Yates to Lead Review of Sexual Misconduct Handling
Cornell University has enlisted former Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates to conduct an independent review of how the Ivy League institution handles sexual misconduct complaints, the university’s Board of Trustees announced Tuesday. The move comes amid an outpouring of anger over allegations of a 2024 gang rape at a fraternity house, which has sparked widespread demands for accountability and reform.
Yates, who served as deputy attorney general in the Obama administration, will spearhead the assessment. She gained national prominence in 2017 when President Donald Trump fired her after she directed Justice Department lawyers not to defend his initial travel ban targeting Muslim-majority countries. Her appointment signals Cornell’s intent to bring in a high-profile, independent voice to scrutinize its procedures.
The review will examine multiple facets of the university’s response to sexual misconduct, including how Cornell investigates reports of sexual assault and sexual harassment, the disciplinary process, and the adequacy of campus police responses. A newly formed Special Committee of the Board of Trustees retained Yates to lead the effort, emphasizing the need for a thorough and impartial evaluation.
The announcement follows mounting pressure from students, faculty, and alumni for transparency and meaningful action. By bringing in Yates, Cornell aims to restore trust and ensure its policies and practices effectively address sexual violence. The findings are expected to inform reforms that could reshape how the university supports survivors and holds perpetrators accountable.
Shimanta Das 
