Updates
Public Safety: Vandalism, Good Sam, Thin Ice
Vandalism on Campus – Let me be clear: Vandalism is a crime that undermines the sense of safety, trust and respect on our campus. Vandalism is an act of property destruction that costs significant time and resources to repair. This behavior is contrary to our core values and will not be tolerated at Cornell.
The destructive activity on the Arts Quad this week is a direct violation of New York state law and Cornell’s Student Code of Conduct. Those responsible will be held accountable. If you witnessed unusual activity on the Arts Quad on Jan. 21, contact Cornell Police Investigations at cup-inv@cornell.edu or 607-254-3351.
Please continue to support one another in maintaining an environment where respect and integrity are at the forefront of all we do.
Be a Good Sam – Cornell’s Good Samaritan Protocol and New York’s Good Samaritan Law aim to remove barriers to those seeking assistance by reducing judicial and legal consequences for underage drinking and the use of other substances. These protocols apply to individuals and organizations on campus. We urge you to avoid drinking to excess and to call 911 if you notice someone who needs assistance.
Associate Vice President for Public Safety
Public Safety: Welcome Back, Campus Resources, Cold Weather
These weekly messages and resources are emailed to all members of our community to enhance your safety both on and off campus. I try to keep the messages short and encourage you to play an active role in your own safety. You can also review Campus Watch, our annual security report detailing policies and information related to your safety.Cornell has many resources to help you navigate concerns related to safety, security, health and well-being. Every Public Safety message provides links to Cornell’s Sexual Harassment and Assault – Response and Education (SHARE) resources, the Mental Health at Cornell website, RAVE Guardian, the Silent Witness program and our Blue Light Services, which include virtual escorts, phones and buses. If you are in need of health care, Cornell Health provides on-campus services and 24/7 phone consultation.
Again, welcome back! I hope your break went well and you’re excited for the start of the spring semester.
Associate Vice President for Public Safety
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Number
You can dial 988 to be routed to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. (For TTY devices, dial 711 then 988). Options for veterans and callers needing language assistance are also available. Callers can talk about topics such as substance abuse, financial worries, relationships, sexual identity, depression, mental and physical illnesses, loneliness and more. On campus, the Community Response Team (CRT), established in the fall of 2023 within the Division of Public Safety, is an alternative first responder team available to assist Cornell students, faculty and staff during a crisis. Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) at Cornell Health is another great on-campus resource and offers 24/7 phone consultation.
Bike Survey
Cornell is applying to the League of American Bicyclists’ Bicycle Friendly University (BFU) program. An important part of the BFU evaluation process is their campus survey. If you are a regular cyclist who is familiar with Cornell’s bicycle programs, facilities and amenities, we would appreciate your participation in the survey by Thursday, Oct. 10.
Extra Visitors
With increased traffic around campus and in town, expect delays when traveling this weekend. By foot or vehicle, stay alert, obey the right-of-way and come to a complete stop at intersections. Cell phones are for taking graduation photos — not texting and driving or texting and walking.
Summer Public Safety Messages – Public Safety messages will occur during the summer, but not on a weekly basis. I will return to my regular schedule this fall. Be safe, and have a great summer!
Weather
Rain or shine, come prepared for all possible weather scenarios (and tell your guests to do so). Check the Commencement and Cornell websites for updates in case of severe weather.
Safety
If you see something that looks suspicious or dangerous at Commencement events, say something! Police, fire and emergency medical services will be on site and can be reached through the Public Safety Communications Center at 607-255-1111. In an emergency, call 911. You can also use the Rave Guardian app to send us tips or to receive emergency messages. Guests can register to receive emergency notifications during their visit by texting CornellVisitor to 226787.