Cornell Survey Reveals Increase in Campus Sexual Assault Reports

The 2025 Cornell Survey of Sexual Assault and Related Misconduct has highlighted a troubling rise in reported incidents of nonconsensual sexual contact among students. The findings, released on March 1, 2025, indicate that 15% of respondents experienced such contact since enrolling at Cornell, up from 11% in 2023. This survey, mandated by New York state law, sheds light on the experiences of students regarding sexual misconduct across Cornell’s multiple campuses, including Ithaca, Geneva, Weill Cornell Medicine, and Cornell Tech.

The survey was conducted in the spring semester with a random sample of 6,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students, resulting in a participation rate of only 15% (926 respondents). This represents a significant decline of 60% compared to previous years, where participation was 36% in 2023 and 38% in 2021.

Key Findings and Concerns

The results indicate that 35% of undergraduate women reported experiencing nonconsensual sexual contact during their time at Cornell, a marked increase from 23% in 2023. Additionally, 49% of students reported experiences of sexual or gender-based harassment, up from 45% in the previous survey. Reports of stalking behavior also increased to 17% in 2025 from 13% in 2023.

The survey also revealed a demographic shift, with the percentage of respondents identifying as transgender, gender nonconforming, questioning, or nonbinary rising to 6% in 2025 from 2% in 2021. Notably, the rate of nonconsensual sexual contact reported by these students has decreased over the years, standing at 11% in 2025, down from 19% in 2021.

Many students opted not to answer critical demographic questions or details surrounding incidents of misconduct, which may affect the accuracy of the data. Officials have advised caution in interpreting the 2025 findings compared to previous surveys.

Commitment to Addressing Issues

Ryan Lombardi, Vice President for Student and Campus Life, expressed concern over the rising numbers, stating, “Sexual misconduct of any kind cannot and will not be tolerated in the Cornell community.” He emphasized the importance of student participation in such surveys to better understand and address the issues facing the community.

Laura Weiss, Program Director of the Sexual Harassment and Assault – Response and Education (SHARE) Office, highlighted the need for comprehensive data to strengthen prevention efforts and improve support services. She noted that clearer data would guide meaningful change and enhance the resources available for those affected.

While awareness of campus support services has increased, many students still refrain from reporting negative experiences. Among those who reported nonconsensual sexual contact in 2025, only 23% sought help from formal resources, an improvement from 11% in 2023. Lombardi acknowledged the need for more outreach, urging students to familiarize themselves with available resources.

Cornell’s Sexual Violence Framework aims to foster healthier social environments and educate the community about sexual assault. The framework emphasizes bystander intervention and provides coordinated victim support, alongside enforcement of university policies and applicable laws.

As Cornell’s Coalition on Sexual Violence Prevention continues to review the survey results, Lombardi expressed determination to adapt and enhance strategies for addressing these critical issues. The coalition, co-chaired by Lombardi and Christine Lovely, Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, is committed to improving education and intervention programs on campus.

The findings from the 2025 Cornell Survey serve as a call to action, emphasizing the need for ongoing dialogue and proactive measures to create a safer and more supportive campus environment.