Sally Yates to review Cornell's handling of sexual misconduct

Yates, who previously served as deputy attorney general from 2015 to 2017 and led an inquiry into abuse allegations within the National Women's Soccer League, will examine Cornell's policies and procedures for preventing and responding to sexual assault claims. This includes a detailed review of the university's investigation and disciplinary processes, as well as the adequacy of campus police responses.

The announcement follows a mass rally by Cornell students on Monday, voicing solidarity with a student, identified as Jane Doe, who alleged she was sexually assaulted by multiple members of the Chi Phi fraternity chapter after being plied with drugs and alcohol. Doe filed a lawsuit last month against Cornell and seven fraternity members, claiming the university failed to adequately investigate and punish those involved. While no criminal charges have been filed, the local prosecutor declined to bring charges, and Cornell has since shut down the Chi Phi chapter and imposed sanctions on some members.

Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff has called the case a "defining moment" for the university, stating it "must do better." New York's attorney general is also conducting a criminal investigation into the allegations.