Change the culture

The more you learn and get involved, the more you can do to positively affect the campus climate and contribute to a safer environment for students to study, socialize, and work. Consider the following opportunities for students looking to do more in and for the Cornell community.

  • The Coalition on Sexual Violence Prevention examines the campus environment, prevention strategies, policies, procedures, and services and explores opportunities for fostering cultural change, reducing risks, and increasing support for members of the community affected by sexual violence and related misconduct. The Coalition is chaired by Vice President Ryan Lombardi, and it is comprised of staff and faculty members, students, and local service providers. For more information about membership, contact the Sexual Violence Prevention Program Director.
  • Consent Ed is a peer-to-peer education program that engages Cornell students in essential conversations about sex, alcohol, consent, and social responsibility.
  • The LGBT Resource Center strives to be an affirming and welcoming space on campus that works to incorporate principles of social justice into their programs and services. There is a wide variety of resources, information about the LGBT community at Cornell, and a number of ways to get involved as students, staff, faculty, or alumni.
  • The CORE RAs (COmmunity and REspect Resident Assistant) within Residential Programs are a select group of resident advisors from each residential community that receive ongoing training, provide awareness activities, and inform students of supportive campus and community resources available to individuals who have been impacted by any form of sexual misconduct. The application process begins in October for the following academic year.
  • Graduate and Professional students concerned about climate and issues directly affecting the graduate or professional experience can find opportunities through the Graduate and Professional Student Assembly (GPSA).

Consider adding a few recommended books to your reading pile:

  • Sexual Citizens by Jennifer Hirsch and Shamu Kahn reports on the findings of the Columbia SHIFT project. The data illuminate sexual interactions and dynamics among college students as well as implications for sexual assault prevention. Listen to an interview with the authors.
  • Know My Name by Chanel Miller is a remarkable memoir by a survivor that offers inspiring words and insights by an extraordinary writer.

For information about educational initiatives on campus, contact the SHARE Office.