The Cornell University Podcast

Cornell Campus Update: Noodle Day, Grad Fair, Cosmic Lunches & Big Red Football Highlights (Sept 29–Oct 6)

Hey Touchdown the Bear, it's Jenny with your Campus Update for September 29 through October 6. Let's get you set for the week—fast.
First up—Cornell Dining is celebrating National Noodle Day on October 6 at Okenshields. Expect a variety of noodle dishes, from ramen to lasagna. Don't miss out on this carb-loaded fest!
Next, the Galaxy and Cosmology Lunch Series continues on September 30 at noon in the Space Sciences Building. Rodrigo Freundt will be presenting, so if you're into the cosmos, this one's for you.
Lastly, the Virtual Graduate School Fair is happening on October 6. It's a great opportunity to explore grad programs and connect with representatives. Mark your calendars!
Tough weekend for Big Red football. We fell to Yale 41-24 in our Ivy League opener. Despite the loss, running back Devin Page put up a solid performance with 57 rushing yards. Looking ahead, we've got a home game against Colgate on October 4. Let's pack the stands and show our support!
The Galaxy and Cosmology Lunch Series is back on September 30. It's a great chance to dive into the mysteries of the universe with fellow enthusiasts. Plus, it's a perfect way to break up your day with some cosmic conversation.
On the food front, National Noodle Day is October 6 at Okenshields. They're serving up a variety of noodle dishes to celebrate. It's a delicious way to fuel up for midterms.
This week in Ithaca, expect unseasonably warm temperatures with highs in the upper 80s and lows in the mid-50s. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities, but stay hydrated and don't forget the sunscreen.
Your move: Attend the Virtual Graduate School Fair on October 6. It's a prime opportunity to explore your future academic options. Don't miss out!
That's your quick Campus Update. I'm Jenny—catch you next Monday morning. Tap follow on your podcast app so you never miss a beat.

Cornell News Update: Toni Morrison Tribute, New Faculty, Scientific Training, Renovated McGraw Tower, and Student Innovation

Good afternoon, Cornell community. It's Monday, September 22, 2025, and here's what's happening on campus.
Currently, it's 72 degrees with light rain. Expect intermittent clouds and temperatures reaching up to 77 degrees later this afternoon. Thunderstorms are anticipated this evening, so keep your umbrellas handy.
Cornell is honoring the 70th anniversary of Toni Morrison's graduation with a four-day event titled "Toni Morrison: Literature and Public Life." From September 18th to 21st, the campus hosted films, panels, workshops, and unveiled a mural celebrating her profound impact on literature and society.
This semester, the College of Arts and Sciences welcomes 27 new faculty members across 17 departments. Their expertise spans diverse fields, including moral psychology, gravitational waves, and Black contemporary art, enriching our academic community.
Starting October 2nd, Cornell's Fall 2024 Scientific Computing Training Series will offer five webinars on Python, JupyterLab, and R. These sessions aim to enhance research services and foster scientific collaboration across all Cornell campuses.
The iconic McGraw Tower has completed its renovations, including a new roof and other improvements. The tower is now ready to stand tall for another century, continuing to be a symbol of Cornell's rich history.
Cornell's entrepreneurial spirit was on full display at a recent kickoff event featuring over 30 resource tables and pitches from students aspiring to join eLab. The event highlighted the university's commitment to fostering innovation and supporting student entrepreneurs.
- : Begins October 2nd, offering webinars on Python, JupyterLab, and R.
- : Scheduled for September 9th, focusing on future energy systems.
That's all for today's update. Stay informed and engaged, Cornell.

Cornell News: AI & Finance Conference, Toni Morrison Tribute, McGraw Tower Update, Lawsuit, Budget Cuts, and Big Red Football Rivalry

Good morning, Cornell community. Today is Monday, September 15, 2025, and here are the latest updates from around campus.
This week, Cornell Financial Engineering Manhattan is hosting its third annual "Future of Finance & AI" Conference on September 19 at Roosevelt Island. The event will feature industry leaders discussing topics like "ChatGPT & The Future of AI in Finance" and "The Changing Landscape of Investing."
Additionally, from September 18 to 21, the university will celebrate "Toni Morrison: Literature and Public Life," marking the 70th anniversary of her degree. The four-day event includes films, panels, workshops, and the unveiling of a mural honoring Morrison's legacy.
McGraw Tower, an iconic symbol of Cornell, has completed its renovations. The tower now boasts a new roof and other improvements, ensuring its presence on campus for another century.
In other news, Cornell alumnus Scott Belsky '02, founder of Behance and A24 Labs, has joined the Cornell Tech Council. His addition is expected to bring valuable insights to the council's initiatives.
Earlier this year, the U.S. Supreme Court reinstated a class-action lawsuit involving 28,000 Cornell employees. The suit alleges excessive fees in the university's retirement plans. The court's unanimous decision emphasizes the responsibilities of retirement plans under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974.
The university is facing significant financial challenges due to federal funding cuts. In response, Cornell has announced plans to reduce staff and review programs to address these financial shortfalls. The administration is committed to making necessary changes to ensure the university's continued excellence.
Looking ahead, the Cornell Big Red football team is set to face the Colgate Raiders on October 4, 2025. This game continues the longstanding rivalry, with the series currently tied at 51 wins each. Fans are eagerly anticipating this matchup.
That's all for today's update. Stay informed and engaged, Cornell.

Cornell Update: Climate Week Events, Supreme Court Lawsuit, Toni Morrison Tribute, Sports Triumphs, Campus Renovations, and New Provost

Good afternoon, Cornell community. Here's what's happening on campus as of Monday, September 8, 2025.
Cornell University is set to participate in Climate Week NYC 2025, taking place from September 21 to 28. The university will host events focusing on topics such as nuclear energy, artificial intelligence for climate solutions, nature finance, and the built environment. These initiatives aim to foster critical conversations on science-based climate solutions.
In legal news, the U.S. Supreme Court has reinstated a class-action lawsuit involving 28,000 Cornell employees. The suit alleges excessive fees in the university's retirement plans. The court's unanimous decision emphasizes that plaintiffs are not required to preemptively claim that statutory exemptions under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) don’t apply. Instead, it's the responsibility of the retirement plans to present such exemptions as affirmative defenses.
Additionally, the White House is reportedly considering imposing fines on several universities, including Cornell, for allegedly failing to adequately address antisemitism on their campuses. The administration is using the prospect of continued access to federal funding as leverage in these discussions.
A four-day event titled "Toni Morrison: Literature and Public Life" is scheduled from September 18 to 21. This celebration marks the 70th anniversary of Morrison's degree and will feature films, panels, workshops, and the unveiling of a mural.
For those interested in graduate studies, the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning is hosting a series of virtual information sessions from September 3 to December 17. These sessions will provide insights into graduate programs, student experiences, and application processes.
The Cornell men's lacrosse team clinched its first NCAA national championship since 1977 by defeating Maryland 13-10. Star player CJ Kirst led the Big Red with six goals and an assist, tying the Division I single-season record with 82 goals and setting a new career scoring record at 247 goals.
In football, the Big Red opened their season with a 41-24 loss to Colgate. Quarterback Jameson Wang completed 29 of 37 passes for 313 yards and three touchdowns. The team looks to bounce back in their upcoming Ivy League opener against Yale.
Renovations to Balch Hall are nearing completion. North Balch Hall is set to reopen for the fall 2024 semester, while South Balch will remain under renovation until fall 2025. The project includes window replacements, bathroom upgrades, and improved accessibility features.
In administrative news, Kavita Bala, the inaugural dean of the Cornell Bowers College of Computing and Information Science, has been named Cornell's 17th provost. She will begin her new role on January 1, 2025. Thorsten Joachims will serve as interim dean of the college.
That's all for today's update. Stay informed and engaged, Cornell.

Cornell Fall 2025 Kicks Off: Semester Start, Geothermal Innovation, Alumni Achievements, and Upcoming Humanities Conference

Good afternoon, Cornellians! It's Monday, September 1st, and welcome back to campus. Here's what's happening at Cornell University.
Today marks the beginning of the Fall 2025 semester. Classes start today, and please note that next Monday, September 8th, is Labor Day, so there will be no classes.
In recent developments, a workshop held last October focused on the role of Enhanced Geothermal Systems in Cornell's energy transition. The event brought together engineers and scholars to discuss the feasibility of implementing such systems on campus.
Our alumni continue to make us proud. Anima Anandkumar, MS ’08, PhD ’09, delivered a TED Talk on AI connecting the digital and physical worlds. Additionally, Lou Guard, JD ’12, co-authored a book that made the New Yorker’s “Best Books of 2024” list.
Looking ahead, the Society for the Humanities will host a conference on the theme of "Silence" on April 24-25, 2025.
That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around campus.

Cornell News: Olin Library Reopens, McGraw Tower Restored, Balch Hall Upgrades, Convocation Welcomes Class of 2029, Football Preview

Good afternoon, Cornellians! It's Monday, August 25, 2025, and welcome back to campus. Here's what's happening at Cornell University.
Today in Ithaca, expect a mix of sun and clouds with temperatures reaching a high of 72°F (22°C). There's a chance of showers in the afternoon, so keep an umbrella handy.
*Olin Library Reopening Celebration*
Mark your calendars for August 27, as Olin Library celebrates its grand reopening. After extensive renovations, the library is ready to welcome students and faculty back. The event will feature tours showcasing the updated facilities and resources. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the revitalized space.
*McGraw Tower Restoration Complete*
The iconic McGraw Tower has completed its restoration and is now scaffolding-free. The project, which began in July 2023, faced delays due to weather conditions and the specialized craftsmanship required for the lead roof. The tower stands tall once again, ready to chime its familiar tunes across campus.
*Balch Hall Renovations*
North Balch Hall has reopened after a comprehensive renovation that began in 2021. The updates include new windows, upgraded bathroom fixtures, and improved accessibility features. South Balch Hall remains under renovation and is expected to reopen in fall 2025.
*New Student Convocation Address*
President Michael I. Kotlikoff welcomed the Class of 2029 and transfer students during the New Student Convocation on August 19. He emphasized the university's commitment to providing an inclusive and diverse educational environment, encouraging students to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.
*Football Season Preview*
The Cornell Big Red football team is gearing up for the 2025 season under the leadership of second-year head coach Dan Swanstrom. The team is set to host Ivy League opponents Brown, Princeton, and Columbia at Schoellkopf Field. Homecoming will coincide with the home opener against Colgate on October 4. Fans are eager to see how the team performs this season.
*Cornell Atkinson Center's 15th Anniversary*
The Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability celebrated its 15th anniversary earlier this year. The conference highlighted past successes and future efforts in supporting climate and sustainability initiatives. The center continues to be a beacon of hope and innovation in addressing environmental challenges.
That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around campus. Welcome back, and let's make this semester a great one!

Cornell News Roundup: New President, Campus Expansions, Research Highlights, and Upcoming Events – August 18, 2025

Good afternoon, Cornellians! It's Monday, August 18, 2025, and welcome to another episode of our campus news podcast. Let's dive into the latest happenings at Cornell University.
Today in Ithaca, we're enjoying mostly sunny skies with a comfortable temperature of 60°F (16°C). As the day progresses, temperatures are expected to rise, reaching a pleasant 75°F (24°C) by mid-afternoon. So, it's a perfect day to be out and about on campus.
In university leadership news, Michael I. Kotlikoff has been officially appointed as Cornell's 15th president. After serving as interim president since July 2024, Kotlikoff's formal appointment took effect on March 21, 2025. Prior to this role, he served as the university's provost from 2015 to 2024. His extensive experience and dedication to Cornell are expected to guide the university through its next chapter.
Exciting developments are underway in the Computing and Information Science department. A new 135,000 square-foot building is scheduled to open this year to accommodate the rapidly increasing enrollments in computing and information science subjects. This expansion reflects Cornell's commitment to staying at the forefront of technological education and research.
Additionally, the renovation of Balch Hall is nearing completion. North Balch Hall reopened for the fall 2024 semester, and South Balch is expected to reopen this fall. The renovations include upgraded bathroom fixtures, new elevators, and improved accessibility, enhancing the living experience for our students.
Turning to athletics, the Cornell Big Red football team is gearing up for the upcoming season under the leadership of second-year head coach Dan Swanstrom. The team is set to host Ivy League opponents Brown, Princeton, and Columbia at Schoellkopf Field. Notably, Homecoming will coincide with the home opener against Colgate on October 4. Fans are eagerly anticipating an exciting season ahead.
On the research front, the Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability has announced the 2025 recipients of the Academic Venture Fund. This year, six interdisciplinary projects focusing on food systems, sustainable energy, climate protection, and human and planetary health have been awarded funding. Since its inception 15 years ago, the fund has distributed $21.7 million to 223 projects across all colleges at Cornell, underscoring the university's commitment to pioneering research.
In alumni news, several Cornellians have recently published notable works. Thomas Perry '69 released his latest mystery novel, "Pro Bono," which has received acclaim for its suspenseful plot. Donna Tesiero '76 authored "Six Nations Diplomat," a biography exploring the life of Mohawk leader Molly Brant during the American Revolution. Additionally, Victor LaValle '94, BA '95, has compiled his Marvel comic series into the "Wolverine: Sabretooth War Omnibus," offering fans a comprehensive collection of his work.
On the advocacy front, Cornellians have been actively engaging in policy discussions. The McClintock Letters project, led by Cornell graduate students, has inspired hundreds of scientists to share their stories in hometown newspapers nationwide. This initiative aims to connect research with the everyday lives of readers and has led to the formation of the Scientist Network for Advancing Policy coalition. Such efforts highlight the impactful role of Cornell's community in shaping public discourse and policy.
Looking ahead, the university calendar is packed with events as the new academic year begins. Be sure to check the official Cornell events page for details on lectures, workshops, and social gatherings happening around campus. It's a great way to stay connected and engaged with the vibrant Cornell community.
That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and stories from around campus. Until next time, take care and enjoy the beautiful day!

Cornell Campus Update: Events at Big Red Barn, Renovations, Leadership News, and Sports Highlights for August 2025

Hello, Cornell community! It's Monday, August 11, 2025, and here's what's happening on campus this week.
- Join us for Weekly Trivia at the Big Red Barn from 6:30 to 8:30 PM. Come with a team or solo and get matched up. All are welcome!
- Show off your vocal talents at Weekly Karaoke, also at the Big Red Barn, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM. Remember, all songs must be non-explicit and submitted via the provided Google form at the event.
- Get your dancing shoes ready for Weekly Salsa from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at the Big Red Barn. No partner necessary, and all levels are welcome!
- Celebrate the end of the week at T.G.I.F. from 4:30 to 7:00 PM at the Big Red Barn. This event is catered to graduate and professional students, who can bring one guest each.
- The extensive renovation of Balch Hall is nearing completion. North Balch Hall reopened for the fall 2024 semester, and South Balch is set to reopen this fall, increasing capacity from 436 to 470 beds and enhancing accessibility.
- Michael Kotlikoff, who began serving as interim president on July 1, 2024, following President Martha E. Pollack's retirement, was formally appointed as Cornell University's 15th president on March 21, 2025.
- A new 135,000 square-foot building for the Cornell Bowers College of Computing and Information Science is scheduled to open this year, accommodating the rapidly increasing enrollments in computing and information science subjects.
- The 2024–25 season marked the final year for head coach Mike Schafer, who announced his retirement after 29 seasons. Casey Jones, a Cornell alumnus, has been named his successor. The team returned nearly all players from the previous year, aiming to build on their strong defensive performance.
- The 2025 season will be led by second-year head coach Dan Swanstrom. In the Ivy League preseason poll, Cornell was selected to finish seventh.
That's all for this week's update. Stay engaged, stay informed, and as always, let's go Big Red!

Cornell News Update: McGraw Tower Renovation, Hiring Pause, UAW Contract, New Provost & CIS Expansion

Good afternoon, Cornell community. It's Monday, August 4, 2025, and here's what's happening on campus.
First, a quick look at today's weather in Ithaca. Currently, it's partly sunny with a temperature of 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures are expected to rise throughout the day, reaching a high of 83 degrees by mid-afternoon. So, if you're planning to be outdoors, it's a great day to enjoy the sunshine.
In campus news, the long-awaited renovation of McGraw Tower is nearing completion. The scaffolding is scheduled to be removed by August 15, following delays due to weather conditions and the specialized craftsmanship required for the lead roof restoration. The project, which began in July 2023, aims to preserve this iconic structure for future generations.
In administrative updates, Cornell has implemented a hiring pause effective immediately. This decision comes in response to financial uncertainties, including potential federal research funding cuts and tax legislation affecting endowment income. The pause is part of a strategic effort to ensure a sustainable budget while continuing to advance the university's mission.
On the labor front, members of the United Auto Workers Local 2300, representing over 1,000 Cornell employees, have reached a tentative contract agreement with the university. The agreement includes significant wage increases, cost-of-living adjustments, and the elimination of the two-tier wage system. This follows a strike that began on August 18, 2024, highlighting the workers' commitment to securing fair compensation and working conditions.
In academic leadership news, Kavita Bala, the inaugural dean of Cornell Bowers College of Computing and Information Science, has been named Cornell's 17th provost. She will begin her new role on January 1, 2025. Thorsten Joachims, the Jacob Gould Schurman Professor of Computer Science and Information Science, will serve as interim dean of Cornell Bowers CIS.
Looking ahead, the university is set to open a new 135,000 square-foot building for the Computing and Information Science program in 2025. This expansion aims to accommodate the rapidly increasing enrollments in computing and information science subjects, reflecting the growing importance of these fields in today's world.
That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around campus.

Cornell News: New President Appointed, Research Advocacy, Wildlife Hospital Expansion, CIS Building, Coach Farewell, and Campus Updates

Good afternoon, Cornellians. Today is Monday, July 28, 2025, and here are the latest updates from our campus community.
Michael I. Kotlikoff has been officially appointed as Cornell University's 15th president, effective March 21, 2025. Previously serving as interim president since July 2024, President Kotlikoff has been a part of the Cornell community for many years, including his tenure as provost from 2015 to 2024. His leadership has been instrumental in advancing the university's mission and initiatives.
Cornell University is actively engaging with Congress to advocate for the protection and enhancement of federal research funding. The university community has been encouraged to contact congressional representatives to emphasize the importance of funding agencies such as the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, and NASA. These efforts aim to ensure the continuation of vital research projects that contribute to national health, safety, and global competitiveness.
The Janet L. Swanson Wildlife Hospital at Cornell has announced plans to expand its facilities to meet the growing demand for treating injured or ill native wild animals. Over the past decade, the hospital's caseload has more than tripled, highlighting the need for enhanced resources to support wildlife health and conservation efforts.
Cornell's Computing and Information Science department is set to open a new 135,000 square-foot building in 2025. This expansion aims to accommodate the rapidly increasing enrollments in computing and information science subjects, reflecting the university's commitment to advancing education and research in these critical fields.
The 2024–25 Cornell Big Red men's ice hockey season marked the 108th season for the program. Under the leadership of Coach Mike Schafer in his 29th season, the team demonstrated strong performance throughout the season. Notably, Coach Schafer announced that this would be his final season, with Casey Jones ('90) set to succeed him as head coach.
Cornellians are encouraged to participate in the university's online book club, which features a diverse selection of titles each month. This initiative fosters a sense of community and intellectual engagement among alumni, students, and faculty.
That's all for today's update. Stay informed and engaged, and we'll be back with more news next week.