Student Safety and Support
At Cornell University, student safety and well-being are top priorities. Cornell provides a comprehensive network of assistance—from emergency services to mental health support—available 24/7.
Below you'll find essential safety measures, support services, and important contacts that every Cornell community member should know.
Campus Safety
The University is committed to keeping all students, faculty, staff, and visitors safe. The Cornell University Police Department is a full-service police agency serving the Cornell University community. Cornell Police works to protect lives and property, maintain order, prevent crimes, investigate reported crimes, and provide other law-enforcement services.
Blue Light Escorts and Late Night Buses
Cornell's pioneering Blue Light program ensures personal security on campus, especially at night. The program now offers virtual escorts through the Rave Guardian App, available day or night. Through the app, students can set a safety timer that tracks their location for a specified period. If the timer isn't deactivated, the app either contacts the user or immediately alerts the DPS Communications Center.
Additionally, Cornell offers TCAT bus service from 6:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. year-round. Matriculated students get unlimited rides on all TCAT buses after 6 p.m. weekdays and anytime on weekends by showing their Cornell ID at the fare box. Learn more about the service here.
Additionally, Cornell offers TCAT bus service from 6:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. year-round. Matriculated students get unlimited rides on all TCAT buses after 6 p.m. weekdays and anytime on weekends by showing their Cornell ID at the fare box. Learn more about the service here.
Emergency Notifications
Cornell University uses the CornellALERT system to send emergency notifications to students, faculty, and staff through text messages, email, and a mobile app. Visitors, guests, and families can also sign up for text alerts. The Campus Emergency Updates page provides details about any disruptions to on-campus services.
We also use other communication methods including email, telephone, and an outdoor warning system. For more details about emergency planning at Cornell University, visit the Office of Emergency Management page
We also use other communication methods including email, telephone, and an outdoor warning system. For more details about emergency planning at Cornell University, visit the Office of Emergency Management page
Good Samaritan Law and Protocol (Good Sam)
Since alcohol and drug emergencies can be life-threatening, Cornell removes barriers to seeking help. Students who call 911 for assistance won't face disciplinary action for underage drinking or drug possession—neither will the person needing help. This protection extends to organizations as well. Cornell's Good Sam Protocol aligns with New York State's Good Samaritan Law.
Student Support and Advocacy Services
Everyone needs support at times. Student Support & Advocacy Services guides students through challenging life events by providing resources and solutions. Whether students need emotional support, connections to campus or local resources, or help navigating university life, they're here to help.
Report a Concern about a Student
If you notice concerning changes in a student's behavior, you can refer them to Student Support & Advocacy Services using this form. Select "Student of Concern" in the Report Type drop-down menu. This tool is for non-emergency concerns only. For emergencies requiring immediate attention, call CU Police at 607-255-1111 or dial 911.
Sexual Violence Prevention and Title IX Office
Cornell University is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for its students, faculty, and staff. Through Policy 6.4, the university addresses sexual and related misconduct, including gender-based harassment, sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic and dating violence, stalking, and sexual exploitation. The policy defines affirmative consent as a knowing, voluntary, and mutual decision among participants to engage in sexual activity. It also outlines procedures for reporting and investigating bias, discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct. All new students must complete an education program addressing sexual and related misconduct.
Cornell has a dedicated Title IX office committed to creating a safer, more caring campus culture—one where bias, harassment, and violence have no place, and every community member can flourish. All reports to the Title IX Office receive serious attention and respectful treatment. Cornell University complies with relevant state and federal statutes, including Title IX of the federal Higher Education Amendment of 1972, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs.
Cornell has a dedicated Title IX office committed to creating a safer, more caring campus culture—one where bias, harassment, and violence have no place, and every community member can flourish. All reports to the Title IX Office receive serious attention and respectful treatment. Cornell University complies with relevant state and federal statutes, including Title IX of the federal Higher Education Amendment of 1972, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs.
Gorge Safety
The gorges that frame Cornell's campus enhance its natural beauty and provide unique scientific study opportunities. While trails allow safe exploration of these stunning landscapes, the gorges can be dangerous. Though injuries and deaths have occurred through gorge misuse, most incidents were preventable. Swimming in the gorges poses extreme danger and risk of drowning. Entering restricted areas or violating posted rules may result in judicial referral or arrest. Learn more on the Gorges Safety page.