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Cornell University

Student & Campus Life

Signature Programs

Two Black students pose under a balloon arch.

The Black Student Empowerment office provides a variety of signature programs and annual events to the campus community. Check out our page on CampusGroups to see what's coming up!

  • MAKANDI Welcome Ceremony During this traditional ceremony, first year and transfer students are formally welcomed to campus by our esteemed Cornell campus and community leadership.
  • Empowering Space Come as you are to a space cultivated to provide affirmation, enlightenment, empowerment, community and healing. Hosted in the main lounge of Ujamaa Residential College, in partnership with Counseling and Psychological Services. All are welcome.
  • RESTORE This is a restorative program allowing participants to center themselves and support one another through healing discussions, gentle yoga, and meditation. This is a partnership with the Office of Spirituality and Meaning-Making. All are welcome.
  • Echoes of Wellness This is a sound bath experience where participants benefit from reduced stress and anxiety, increased mental clarity and focus, enhanced emotional well-being and deep relaxation and sleep. This is a partnership with the Office of Spirituality and Meaning Making. All are welcome.
  • AVANSE: A Celebration of Progress Avanse is a Haitian Creole word meaning “to advance” or “to move forward with purpose”—a fitting reflection of this end-of-year celebration. A collaboration between Black Student Empowerment and the Cornell Black Alumni Association, AVANSE brings graduates together in community for a rites of passage celebration honoring their journey, achievements, and brilliance. During this special ceremony, graduates are recognized by name and invited to cross the stage surrounded by the community that has supported them along the way—friends, family, faculty, mentors, and peers.
  • Community Conversations w/ Counseling and Psychological Services This supportive space of belonging and well-being gives students the opportunity to discuss the breadth of their individual and unique experiences at Cornell. Students can connect one-on-one with our CAPS liaison or in a group setting. All sessions are free, information, and drop-in. All are welcome. This is a partnership with Cornell Health.