Christian Flournoy
Class of 2027
My priorities for the Board of Trustees:
The top three priorities for the Board of Trustees should be to establish a strong connection with the student body, improve transparency, and continue representing the diverse interests of all students while upholding Cornell’s commitment to “any person, any study.” First, fostering a meaningful relationship with students is essential for informed decision-making and ensuring that the Board’s actions align with student needs and concerns. Second, increasing transparency by sharing board updates, and outcomes will confuse helping build trust within the community. Finally, maintaining a commitment to diversity means ensuring that the voices of all student groups are heard and considered in university policy-making.
As a Trustee, I would use my position to implement reports representing these various student groups and directly share these with the board. By gathering insights from a broad range of demographics—such as CALS students, athletes, and minority groups—I would ensure that the Board receives direct feedback from the student body. These reports will not only serve as a platform for students to voice their concerns but also help the Board understand and address the unique needs of each group. This approach would ensure that Cornell remains an inclusive institution that values all perspectives and continues to foster a dynamic, diverse community.
I am committed to improving the lives of all students, and I know that I will effectively represent all students' interests.
My experience:
The Student Elected Trustee must be able to accurately represent the student body to the board of trustees, which requires widespread involvement on campus to understand the wide variety of students’ needs. I have been very involved in the Cornell community having served on Cornell’s Student Assembly as Freshman Representative, and currently Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, and Undergraduate Representative At-Large. I am also socially and athletically involved, as the Secretary for the Alpha Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and a student athlete on the Sprint Football Team.
Whether passing resolutions to ensure student well being, leading fundraising events for the community, or supporting my team and other athletes on campus, community leadership and involvement has been an integral part of my Cornell experience, and will be essential to my service as student trustee.
My interests:
I am deeply interested in ensuring that every student feels their voice is heard, particularly in large university settings where it can be easy to feel overlooked. My goal is to create a space where students can express their concerns, and those concerns are genuinely addressed. Additionally, I am passionate about supporting student mental health. I believe that prioritizing mental well-being is crucial for academic success and personal growth, and I want to ensure that there are sufficient resources and support systems in place to help students navigate their challenges. Ultimately, my focus is on fostering a community where students feel supported, valued, and empowered.