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Cornell University

Office of the Assemblies

SA R17 (2026-2027): Granting Free Cornell Health Counseling for Survivors of Sexual Assault

Acknowledged by the President

  • Resolution:
    SA R17 (2026-2027): Granting Free Cornell Health Counseling for Survivors of Sexual Assault
  • Day:
    November 5, 2026
  • Action:
    Acknowledged by the President
  • Summary / Notes:
  • File Attachments:
  • Text Attachment:

    Dear Eeshaan,

    Thank you for conveying Student Assembly Resolution 17: Granting Free Cornell Health Counseling for Survivors of Sexual Assault. I have asked Julie Edwards, Assistant Vice President for Student Health and Wellbeing, to address the suggestions and concerns raised.

    Sincerely,

    Michael Kotlikoff

    Thank you to the Student Assembly for their thoughtful resolution. The Assembly suggested that Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) should include “Survivor Support Counselor” under the current staff affiliations in the staff directory. We do in fact have a counselor who serves in this capacity, and I am working with our team to ensure this role, as well as its scope and function, is clearly reflected on the CAPS website. 

    We appreciate the importance of ensuring access to resources during challenging times. Students can request guidance with a medical or mental health provider 24/7 via a phone consultation. We are also providing a support space for survivors. More information can be found via the CAPS website.

    With regard to the suggestion of waiving copays, survivors of sexual assault (or any other students) for whom the $10 Cornell Health visit copay is causing financial hardship and impeding their ability to access care may be eligible for financial assistance. Students can submit a Copay Assistance Application by logging in to myCornellHealth and going to "Surveys & Questionnaires" in the menu bar. More information about copay assistance is available on Cornell Health’s Cost for Service website. We will continue monitoring data related to trauma-focused appointments (sexual assault, intimate partner violence) to assess trends and determine whether any changes to co-pay waiver practices are needed. 

    Sincerely, 

    Julie Edwards, Ed.D

    Assistant Vice President for Student Health and Wellbeing