A former Cornell University student, identified as Jane Doe, stated she felt "unsupported and disbelieved" by President Michael Kotlikoff following her 2024 gang rape allegation. This sentiment was conveyed in a letter sent to the faculty senate earlier this month, obtained by ABC News.

Doe's letter was reportedly intended to inform the faculty senate before they considered a resolution of no confidence in Kotlikoff and the university administration. The alleged assault occurred over the night of October 19-20, 2024, at the Chi Phi fraternity house. Doe reported the incident to campus police on November 8, 2024.

The core of Doe's grievance stems from a reported conversation President Kotlikoff had with her sorority's president shortly after the assault was reported. According to Doe's letter, Kotlikoff asked, "Why did she wait so long to report it?" which her sorority sister interpreted as doubt regarding the veracity of her account. Doe stated this interaction diminished her confidence in the administration's ability to handle her experience with the "understanding, sensitivity, and fairness" she expected.

A spokesperson for Cornell University contested the characterization of Kotlikoff's remark in Doe's letter. The university stated that the question about the delay in reporting was directed at bystanders who had not utilized the university's anonymous tip line, despite social media activity concerning the incident at the time. The spokesperson clarified that Kotlikoff was not questioning Doe's own reporting of the assault.

Jane Doe, now 22, has since withdrawn from Cornell. She indicated in her letter that her intention was to provide information to the faculty senate for their awareness, allowing them to make an informed decision regarding the no-confidence resolution. She did not explicitly state how the senate should vote.

Doe has filed a civil lawsuit against the fraternity brothers accused in the alleged assault and against the university. She claims she was drugged and raped. All seven fraternity brothers named in the suit have denied any wrongdoing, and no criminal charges have been filed in connection with the case.

The incident has drawn attention to campus safety and the university's response to sexual assault allegations. The faculty senate's upcoming consideration of the no-confidence resolution underscores potential divisions or concerns regarding the administration's handling of such serious matters.

This situation highlights the ongoing challenges universities face in addressing sexual assault claims, balancing due process for the accused with support for survivors, and maintaining trust within the campus community.