February 16, 2023

Dear Cornell Community,

As we immerse ourselves back into the cadence of the new semester, we wanted to acknowledge the unsettling events that are impacting our communities, including natural disasters, international conflicts and mass shootings. We recognize the anxiety, stress and collective loss that some may be experiencing as a result of these disturbing incidents. We are grateful for a Cornell community that continues to show caring and concern for our fellow students, faculty and staff. Find support and resources for Ithaca, Cornell AgriTech and Cornell Tech communities at mentalhealth.cornell.edu and for the Weill Cornell Medicine community through the Employee Assistance Program Consortium and the Student Mental Health Program.

As we continue the work of Belonging at Cornell, we would like to share a few brief updates on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

Five mini-grants have been awarded as part of the Belonging at Cornell Mini Grants, Professional/Graduate student pilot. The winning projects focused on professional development, support of TAs, reading discussion groups, a clothing resource opportunity and support of the Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering's (CBE) “Diversity Day.”

The three 2022 Faculty/Staff Belonging at Cornell grant projects have gotten off to a great start. Training sessions and workshops have been held and collaborative teams formed. A day-long conference titled “Can You Hear My Voice: The Impact of Untapped Marginalized Groups in the Talent Management Space,” will be held on April 5.

Belonging at Cornell engages the entire Cornell community in the university’s continued efforts to promote diversity, equity and a sense of belonging. In this newsletter, explore some of the great programs and initiatives that support the objectives of the Belonging at Cornell framework, with a focus on those that celebrate Black History Month.

Sincerely,
The Presidential Advisors on Diversity and Equity (PADE)

Avery August, Deputy Provost
Marla Love, Robert W. and Elizabeth C. Staley Dean of Students
Sonia Rucker, Associate Vice President for Inclusion and Belonging

Newsletter Archive