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Cornell University

Nicole Schanker

First-Year Master's of Health Administration Student, Brooks School of Public Policy

Nicole Schanker photo

My priorities for the Board of Trustees:

Mental Health Support: Student well-being is essential to academic success. From my experience as a hospital social worker and lifeguard manager, I’ve seen the impact of inadequate mental health support. I would advocate for expanding services, reducing counseling wait times, and promoting proactive mental health care across campus. 

Diversity and Inclusion: As a member of the Jewish Graduate Student Association and a Cornell Hillel participant, I understand the importance of creating an inclusive environment. My Peace Corps experience gave me a deep appreciation for cultural understanding, and I would champion policies that enhance cultural competency, support underrepresented groups, and build mentorship programs to ensure every student feels valued. 

Community Engagement: With years of social work experience, I value the power of community connection. I believe Cornell can further foster a sense of belonging by increasing collaboration between students, faculty, and alumni. As Trustee, I would promote interdisciplinary projects, service, and mentorship to strengthen Cornell’s community.

My Experience:

I see three key priorities for the university’s future: addressing student mental health, promoting diversity and inclusion, and fostering community engagement. These priorities align with my background in healthcare, advocacy, and social work, which I believe will contribute to a supportive and equitable environment for all. Additionally, I would leverage my years of experience connecting with faculty and my involvement in student organizations to strengthen communication between students and the Board. Through regular engagement with student leadership and alumni networks, I aim to ensure that the Board's decisions reflect the needs and aspirations of the diverse Cornell community. By building bridges across disciplines and communities, I believe I can help create a more connected, inclusive, and responsive Cornell.

My Interests:

I am deeply committed to ensuring that everyone feels safe, comfortable, and valued, no matter who they are or where they come from. As a social worker, I have spent years advocating for individuals from diverse backgrounds, working to create environments where they can thrive and feel supported. My experience has taught me the importance of empathy, inclusion, and creating spaces where people feel heard and respected. I believe in promoting equity, breaking down barriers, and fostering communities where every person, regardless of identity, feels a true sense of belonging and security.