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Cornell University

Office of Faculty Development and Diversity

Inclusion and Belonging

In 1865, at the official dedication of Cornell University and the inauguration of its first president, Andrew Dickson White, Ezra Cornell shared his founding principle:

The Ezra Cornell Statue in the Arts Quad during an autumn sunset.

“I would found an institution where any person can find instruction in any study.”

– Ezra Cornell, 1868

The concept of “… any person” meant that people from all walks of life, all income levels, races, religions and genders could attend Cornell University.

As the Cornell community continues to implement Ezra Cornell’s vision for an inclusive institution, the Office of Faculty Development and Diversity provides our faculty with educational resources consistent with the university’s mission, vision and core values.

  • Racism, Antisemitism and Islamophobia

    Cornell faculty are encouraged to continue their education in equity and inclusivity. This resource library provides additional support for engaging in challenging conversations surrounding racism/anti-racism, antisemitism and Islamophobia.

    Resources for Conversations on Racism

  • LGBTQ+ Resource Guide

    Cornell faculty are encouraged to continue their education in equity and inclusivity. This resource library provides additional support for engaging in challenging conversations surrounding the LGBTQ+ community.

    LGBTQ+ Resource Guide Available for Faculty and Staff

  • Ithaca, Cornell and Upstate New York

    Cornell faculty are encouraged to continue their education in equity and inclusivity. This resource library provides additional support for engaging in challenging conversations surrounding indigineity, place and community.

    Ithaca, Cornell, Upstate New York, and the US: Understanding Space, Place and Community

For educators, building an atmosphere of trust and respect means intentionally fostering a learning environment where discussion and diverse views are welcome. Cornell faculty are highly encouraged to read “Responding to Incidents that Affect the Teaching and Learning Climate” to help navigate difficult moments in the the classroom and build a more trusting learning community.