Back to Handbook Table of Contents
Campus Governance
Campus governance at Cornell is a function of the University Assemblies, which includes the Employee Assembly, Student Assembly, Graduate and Professional Student Assembly, University Assembly and Faculty Senate, each of which consists of members elected from its constituency. Each assembly investigates issues pertinent to its concerns and works with administrative units to improve university policies and campus life. The commendations of the assemblies are sent to the president for final determination.
The Employee Assembly seeks to involve all staff members in the life of the university. It encourages higher visibility for staff, more equal participation with faculty and students in the policy-making process, and an increased sense of community. The Employee Assembly, with representatives from both the state contract and endowed colleges, has shared in the governance of Cornell and has presented many innovative ideas to the administration. The result has been positive contributions and changes for the members of the Cornell community.
The University Assembly membership is drawn from the four constituent bodies and is composed of seven faculty members, five staff members, six undergraduate students, and three graduate or professional students. It considers issues of interest to the entire university community.
Cornell is governed by a Board of Trustees. Cornell was one of the first universities to have employees serve as voting members on the Board of Trustees. One seat on the Board of Trustees is filled by a staff-elected trustee.
DISCLAIMER: The policies contained in this handbook are not conditions of employment, and are not intended to create a contract between the university and its employees. The university reserves the right to amend or revoke the policies in this handbook at any time without notice. The university reserves the right to change the content of this handbook at any time. Nothing contained in this handbook constitutes a promise or guarantee of continuing employment or benefits.