A message from our leadership regarding community safety and organizational transparency

Monday 26 October 2026

Like many of you, we on the Cornell NorCal board have been closely following the reports and legal developments related to the 2024 Cornell University sexual assault case. We are deeply appalled, saddened, and unsettled by the circumstances surrounding this situation. As fellow alumni who cherish our connection to the university and care deeply about the safety and well-being of every student, we share your profound dismay. We stand firmly against sexual violence, misconduct, and any systemic failure to protect members of our campus community. In times like these, it is vital that we uphold our shared values of accountability, empathy, and unwavering support for survivors.

We encourage you to read the university's official statement and updates regarding the ongoing situation.

Read Cornell University Official Statement

We also want to clarify that Cornell NorCal is an independent, volunteer-led regional alumni organization and separate 501(c)(3) nonprofit. We are not part of Cornell University's administration, receive no operational funding from the university, and rely on the support of our local alumni community and donors to function. As a local alumni board, we are actively developing future volunteer opportunities, community discussions, and educational events for a new Cornell NorCal Cares series focused on addressing sexual violence and survivor support, separate from our ongoing Cornell Cares events. Our first Cornell NorCal Cares event will be a Support Kit Assembly volunteer opportunity with Burlingame’s Rape Trauma Services in November 2026.

If you would like to get involved, suggest a local organization to partner with, or help lead an upcoming event, please reach out to us.