Information for Staff | COVID-19 and Reactivation Planning

The university appreciates the flexibility and dedication of its staff who have worked so diligently to support the changes we have all faced during this unprecedented situation. The health and well-being of our workforce is of utmost importance to us during these changing and challenging times.

At this time, faculty and staff who are working remotely should continue to do so unless approved to return to campus by their dean, department chair or supervisor. Even when cleared to return to campus, individuals who can work effectively while remote should continue to do so. Please reach out to your supervisor or unit HR director if you have questions.

Recent Updates

Faculty and Staff Town Hall: Fall Semester Update (September 21)
Ithaca campus moving to COVID alert level green (September 16)
Faculty and Staff Town Hall: Beginning the Semester (September 3)
Ithaca campus moving to COVID alert level yellow (September 3)
Important message regarding New York state guidelines (September 2)

More Updates

Frequently Asked Questions

The Academic Calendar has been adjusted for the fall semester. How does this impact the holiday/time off schedule?

In response to COVID-19, Cornell has revised this year’s academic calendar. As a result, classes may be held on dates that traditionally occurred during academic breaks or holidays, such as Labor Day and Veterans Day. If classes are scheduled on these days, faculty are expected to provide instruction. Staff may also be required to work these days; if so, they will be paid in accordance with university holiday pay guidelines. A list of staff holidays is available here. Faculty and staff may contact your Human Resources representatives with questions.

Classes are scheduled on Labor Day this year. How will that impact the staff holiday schedule?

Staff holidays are outlined in Policy 6.9, Time Away From Work. Because classes are in session on Labor Day for the fall semester, additional staff may be required to work this year. Staff who are required to work on Labor Day will be paid in accordance with Cornell’s holiday pay guidelines. Questions can be directed to your HR Representative.