| Dear Colleagues,
We are pleased to announce that, as of July 1, the university has launched two new initiatives to create a more inclusive workplace experience:
- Central funding for workplace accommodations for faculty, staff and visiting or guest lecturers with disabilities;
- Free Red Runner rides for individuals with Cornell-issued AP/PO parking permits or who have documented disabilities that impact their mobility, transportation access or navigation.
These efforts are part of Cornell’s commitment to building a culture of belonging that supports our diverse workforce and champions inclusion for all members of our community.
Accommodations fund
Limited funds have been designated centrally to provide reasonable accommodations to faculty, staff and visiting or guest lecturers who need adaptive aids, assistive technology or other reasonable accommodations.
These funds are intended to supplement department/unit efforts, especially in the way of devices and technology which can significantly improve the work experience for individuals with disabilities. The central funds cannot be used to purchase standard ergonomic equipment generally available to all employees, such as sit-stand desks, or to make physical improvements or modifications to building structures. Those items should continue to be funded through the department/unit or alternate means.
Funds are only available for accommodations approved after July 1; there will be no retroactive reimbursements. Visit diversity.cornell.edu for full details.
Accessible Red Runner transportation
Through the accessible Red Runner service, Cornell will provide free door-to-door transportation for staff and faculty with disabilities when they participate in university-related activities, including meetings, seminars, trainings and campus events, or take advantage of Cornell’s employment benefits, such as wellness programs. Commuter rides to and from home are not eligible.
The service is open to faculty and staff with Cornell-issued AP/PO parking permits, and to approved faculty and staff who do not have a Cornell AP/PO parking permit but have a disability affecting their mobility.
Full details regarding eligibility, hours of service and reservations can be found on diversity.cornell.edu.
Questions? Contact Angela Winfield, Director of Inclusion and Workforce Diversity, at 607-255-6865 or acw38@cornell.edu. |
