On January 9, 2025, Interim President Michael Kotlikoff delivered an address to staff. The annual event was sponsored by the Employee Assembly and was both in person and as a live stream with questions submitted over the internet. The video of the event was posted.
Kotlkoff was introduced by Erika Crawley, Chair of the Employee Assembly.
Kotlikoff noted that he was speaking as someone who has been at Cornell for 24 years “and appreciates all of the unique attributes of this community.” Kotlikoff introduced the new Provost Kavita Bala, who took office on January 1. “Part of what makes Cornell unique is the fact that so many individuals in this community have worked, as K.B. and I have for so long.”
Kotlikoff also highlighted other unique attributes of the Cornell community. “It is difficult to be a jerk in a small town – it is not impossible.” Cornell has low fences to collaboration because it is such a small community compared to other major research universities. Cornell also has the “breath of activities and breath of excellence across the institution that is a signature component.”
Cornell has excellence in areas such as engineering and computer science, which lead the Ivy League.
Cornell faces challenges “because we now are in the political crosshairs.” Critics are raising proposals to tax endowments and end tax-exempt status. In response, universities will make efforts to highlight the contributions they make to the nation and the world. University leaders have failed to explain how endowments work. The endowment is “80% restricted to things that make us better, such as financial aid.” There is an effort called “The Washington Project” that started with Ivy League institutions to lobby Congress for a greater appreciation of high-quality universities.
Cornell is likely to see financial headwinds, including significant inflation. Congress is considering bills relating to Title VI complaints.
As Provost, Kotlikoff noticed that Cornell has many internal systems to operate the university, and there needs to be more consistent operation between units to gain efficiency. Cornell will use AI and data analytics to make jobs easier and more efficient.
Kotlikoff noted the increase in union activity but wants to emphasize Cornell’s commitment to its staff. He was troubled that the union claimed that Cornell did not care about its employees. Kotlikoff was pleased that Cornell settled the September 2024 UAW strike by devoting more of the added resources to Cornell’s lowest-paid employees. Kotlikoff is also troubled by increased tension between Cornell and local community leaders and is meeting directly with those leaders to build greater understanding. “That [local] community is vital to us,” said Kotlikoff.
Questions and Answers
Bert Bland, the Director of Sustainability Programs, asked why the Trustees consider sustainability issues under the Building and Properties Committee instead of a separate committee. Kotlikoff said it was a decision based on history, and the Trustees are engaged in sustainability. He also noted that this is an area where the university should do more and create conditions that make Cornell carbon neutral as soon as possible.” We have to be smart about each investment.”
Staff expansion has to level off, and systems must make staff more efficient.
A staff member noted that the staff count grows without increasing the number of central campus parking spaces. Parking is frustrating to employees. Kotlikoff discussed parking day passes. He also wants to improve the TCAT bus performance.
An online user asked about Cornell’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Kotlikoff reaffirmed his commitment to DEI. “There are areas where we focus upon excellence … and not elevating [DEI] above [excellence].” “That is a conversation we all need to be having.”
John Webster asked about the role of varsity athletics at Cornell and what questions about athletics should be asked of candidates for President. Kotlikoff said that he is “a big proponent of varsity athletics at this university and every university.” He admires the discipline that student athletes have. “I think we can do a better job of enunciating that commitment and value.” “We have to be nimble and thoughtful about … [name image and likeness].” He then said, “I continue to articulate support for veterans on this campus.”
“Greek Life is another area where we have problems, but we have great value.” “There are so many strengths of that system that you will hear me talking about that.’
The overall message of the session is that even though President Kotlikoff and Provost Bala have each been at Cornell for over 20 years, their leadership will be shaped by the Board of Trustees and by decision-makers in Washington, DC.
