All articles tagged with #faculty senate
Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff stated that Greek life should be permanently abolished if safety cannot be guaranteed, following a contentious Faculty Senate meeting. The university is facing a no-confidence vote over its handling of a 2024 gang rape allegation, while CNN reports that disciplinary actions for sexual assault have historically been lenient.
Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff faced intense scrutiny from faculty during a closed-door meeting on October 14, 2026, as the Faculty Senate debated a no-confidence resolution. The debate centers on the university's handling of a 2024 alleged gang rape at a Chi Phi fraternity house, which has led to calls for administrative resignation. While the administration announced new investigative partnerships with the New York State Police and an independent review led by former Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates, critics argue these measures are reactive and insufficient. Faculty members expressed frustration over perceived suppression of academic freedom and student voices, with some alleging that over 80 students have been punished for nonviolent speech since 2023. The seven men accused in the 2024 case have denied the allegations, and a final vote on the no-confidence resolution is expected within a week of the next meeting on October 28.
Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff faced intense scrutiny from faculty and students over the university's handling of a 2024 alleged gang rape at a Chi Phi house. While the administration announced immediate bans on fraternity parties and new support measures for survivors, critics argue these steps are reactive and insufficient. A no-confidence vote is pending, with debate scheduled for late October.
Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp will recommend Mark Welsh III, the interim President at Texas A&M University, as the sole finalist for the permanent position. The Board of Regents is expected to officially name Welsh the sole finalist after a 21-day waiting period. Faculty members have expressed concerns about the lack of faculty involvement in the decision-making process and the university's ability to attract top external talent. Welsh has been praised for his leadership and efforts to involve faculty, students, and staff in decision-making.
Texas A&M University President M. Katherine Banks has resigned following controversy over the failed hiring of a journalism professor. The university had announced the hiring of Kathleen McElroy, a journalist and professor, but later changed the terms of her proposed employment. McElroy, who is Black, believes her hiring was affected by backlash due to her work on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. A state law banning such programs in public universities is set to go into effect next year. The university is launching an investigation into the failed hire, and the Faculty Senate has formed a fact-finding committee. McElroy intends to remain a professor at the University of Texas at Austin.
Texas A&M President Kathy Banks claims she was unaware of changes made to an offer letter that resulted in a prospective journalism professor declining the position due to conservative backlash. The university's administration did not reach out to the candidate again, citing the potential for legal action. The mishandling of the hiring process has led to calls for an investigation by the Faculty Senate, as professors express dissatisfaction with the lack of transparency. The incident has damaged the university's reputation and highlights the ongoing scrutiny and resistance faced by universities regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.
The majority of faculty members at West Texas A&M University have voted no confidence in University President Walter Wendler, following his decision to cancel a drag show on campus in March. The vote is non-binding, but 68.58% of eligible ballots voted in favor of no confidence.