Cornish ended her remarks by asking faculty, staff and students to commit to the work that is being done at Ithaca College.
“I ask that we remember the following: we are, all of us, ambassadors for Ithaca College in everything we say and everything we do,” said Cornish. “Let's be mindful about what we show the world and ourselves about who we are, what we value and what we want to be. I believe in Ithaca College and believe that we can be successful together. In fact, together is the only way we are going to succeed.”
Chris McNamara, clinical associate professor of physical therapy and the chair of Faculty Council; Clint McCartney, supervisor in facilities services and chair of Staff Council; and Deontae Guy ’23, president of the Student Governance Council, also shared a few words with faculty, staff and students.
McNamara talked about priorities that Faculty Council is working toward, including fostering engagement and communication; providing learning experiences that are student centered and safe; promoting a positive student experience on a campus; and committing to creating a community that is inclusive and authentic.
“Our work will focus on adjusting to and reshaping our new normal; teaching, meeting, interacting, communicating by redefining and promoting a sense of community,” said McNamara.
McCartney spoke about how the sense of community will have a real and lasting effect on staff morale and job satisfaction.
“Staff Council understands the importance of building a strong sense of community not only between staff but between students, staff, faculty and the senior leadership team,” said McCartney. “We are working to enhance a sense of pride in who staff are, what staff do and the important role staff play in the success of Ithaca College.”
Guy acknowledged the work that the Student Governance Council does and will do this year.
“This year, we have declared revival is coming to our campus,” said Guy. “That means establishing trust, communication and most importantly transparency back within our community. Everything we will do this year will be an effort towards reviving our campus.”
Additionally, he thanked faculty and staff for their efforts to help students return to campus.
“To all faculty and staff listening to me today, I would like you to know that one of our biggest hopes is that students here at Ithaca College might feel a sense of belonging,” said Guy. “We hope and pray that students know that this is the place that they can call home. We create belonging by making intentional acts to be inclusive and accepting each student as they are.”
Another gathering to discuss the state of the college will take place on Tuesday, October 5.
