Program House Spotlight: Akwe:kon

Akwe:kon (pronounced "uh-GWAY-go"), a Program House on North Campus, was one of the United States' first university residence halls built to celebrate and honor Indigenous heritage. Since its opening in 1991, Akwe:kon has helped generations of Cornellians from different backgrounds thrive on the Hill while learning about and embracing the traditions and values of Indigenous cultures.

This is Charlie Hernandez '26's second year living in Akwe:kon. He learned about the Program House his first year at Cornell and regularly attended events hosted by Cornell's Indigenous community there. He realized he wanted Akwe:kon to be his next home on campus after going to a few events and making friends with residents.

"I was drawn to Akwe:kon because of its emphasis on community. I saw people laughing together in the hallways and studying with each other in the Great Room, and seeing those bonds forming made it feel like home."

Community is truly at the heart of this Program House's philosophy. Akwe:kon means "all of us" in the Mohawk language, reflecting the importance of each resident and their contributions to the space.

One place where Akwe:kon residents gather is the Great Room, a central hub within the Program House. Indigenous organizations across campus host events in this space, and it's also where in-residence events like Hall Council meetings and movie marathons are held. The Great Room is one of Hernandez's favorite spots in Akwe:kon; it's where he likes to do work and connect with his peers.

"You'll find people in the Great Room grabbing food from the kitchen or hanging out and getting work done. It's very communal and a nice space to be in."

Another space where Akwe:kon residents convene is the Multipurpose Room, where students collaborate on projects, watch television, or enjoy a friendly game of mini-pool. Those small but meaningful moments helped Hernandez make Akwe:kon his home on the Hill.

"Finding community in Akwe:kon was a vital aspect in my transition to Cornell. I was able to make friends and really find my place on campus, and I want to provide that support for other residents as well."

Hernandez committed to living in Akwe:kon his senior year and looks forward to the opportunities that come with being a more senior resident.

"Being one of the few upper-level students here has pushed me to encourage both Native and non-Native residents to really get involved in Akwe:kon activities and continue building that sense of belonging."

Hernandez's advice for anyone interested in living in Akwe:kon: Get involved as much as possible and interact with fellow residents.

"Show up for in-house and out-of-house events hosted here. Those small interactions really build up and establish a rapport with other residents. Before you know it, you become familiar with one another and create those community ties."

If you have questions about the Program Houses at Cornell, contact the Housing Office at housing@cornell.edu or call 607-255-5368.