Abstract:
This resolution calls on the Cornell Leadership to provide an update to the Student Assembly regarding the recent reported funding being withheld. Additionally, the resolution calls on Cornell University leadership to sufficiently consult the Student Assembly prior to any changes that are made that affect the student body in relation to these cuts.
Whereas, on April 8th, 2025, the New York Times reported1 that Cornell University would have many of its federal grants paused, amounting to 1 billion dollars in funding being withheld. This report cited two anonymous federal government officials. Following the release of this article, President Kotlikoff, Provost Bala, and Provost for Medical Affairs Harrington sent out a statement2 confirming the cuts, but disputing the reported figure.
Whereas, the affected grants include research regarding cancer, robotics, superconductors, propulsion systems, large-scale information networks, space and satellite communications, as well as new materials for jet engines.
Whereas, many members of Cornell’s undergraduate community are alarmed by this news and how it may impact their research and employment opportunities offered to them, and available fields of study.
Be it therefore resolved, that, pursuant to the Student Assembly Charter Article III, Section 1, the Student Assembly thereby requires Cornell leadership to inform the Student Assembly’s officers regarding the details of the funding cuts and affected grants in a timely manner.
Be it further resolved, the Student Assembly urges Cornell leadership works in tandem with the Student Assembly in its first investigative resolution of the 2024-2025 academic year including having elected representatives from the Student Assembly in conversation with Cornell leadership.
Be it finally resolved, that the New York State Congressional Delegation and Cornell’s statewide elected representatives be addressed by the Student Assembly with Appendix A’s letter.
Respectfully Submitted,
Adam Vinson ‘25
Executive Vice President of the Student Assembly
Zora deRham ’27
President of the Student Assembly
Nicholas Maggard ‘25
Deputy President of the Student Assembly
David Suarez ‘27
Vice President of Internal Operations of the Student Assembly
Niles Hite ‘26
Vice President for Finance of the Student Assembly
Simone Chan ‘25
Vice President of External Affairs of the Student Assembly
Sophia Arnold ‘26
Director of the Office of Ethics of the Student Assembly
Saad Razzak ‘26
College of Arts & Sciences Representative, Student Assembly
