Disability Self-Identification FAQ
Help Cornell understand and better serve our diverse populations, including individuals with disabilities.
Why should I disclose if I have a disability?
By self-identifying, you help Cornell more accurately determine the diversity of our workforce and ensure individuals with disabilities are represented throughout the University.
What is a disability?
For purposes of this form, a disability is any physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities and can include, but is not limited to non-obvious, chronic conditions such as cancer, diabetes, lupus, fibromyalgia, epilepsy, clinical depression and alcoholism. "Major life activities" are described on the ADA website (Americans With Disabilities Act) as "the kind of activities that you do every day, including your body’s own internal processes." Some examples include:
- Actions like eating, sleeping, speaking, and breathing
- Movements like walking, standing, lifting, and bending
- Cognitive functions like thinking and concentrating
- Sensory functions like seeing and hearing
- Tasks like working, reading, learning, and communicating
- The operation of major bodily functions like circulation, reproduction, and individual organs
What is the self-identification form?
As a federal contractor receiving over one hundred million dollars in federal research grants, Cornell is subject to federal laws and regulations governing affirmative action in the workplace. The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) has set an aspirational goal of 7% of employees self-identifying as having a disability. We strive to meet or exceed this aspirational goal.
How will my responses be used?
You will be asked to log in with your NetID, but your information will remain confidential and will only be used to:
- fulfill Cornell’s federal obligations to the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP), and
- measure institutional diversity to inform our talent recruitment/retention efforts, programming, and resources.
Should I submit the form if I don't have a disability?
Yes, your participation helps provide more accurate data. There is an option to indicate that you do not have a disability.
Am I required to submit the form?
No. Your submission of the form is voluntary. We hope you will participate as it helps Cornell understand and better serve our diverse populations, including individuals with disabilities.
What if I responded to the form the last time it was administered?
We encourage you to respond even if you have submitted the form before. Some disabilities are temporary, and broad participation is important to provide us with a more complete understanding of the diversity and needs of our current workforce.
Who has access to my information?
The information you share on the form is confidential. Your response will be added to your personal information in Workday, but access to the data is restricted to a select few individuals within Human Resources, and will be used only in aggregate, to fulfill Cornell’s federal compliance obligations. Your data will not be shared with supervisors, managers, or other individuals, nor will it be accessible to them through Workday.
Can I change my information in Workday?
Yes. If, for any reason, you need to update your information at any time, you can do so through Workday. Choose the "Personal Information" icon, then choose "Personal Information" again under the Change heading. Scroll down to the bottom of this section and look for "Disability" - there will be a button to add or edit your information.
What if I have additional questions?
Contact: Darren Jackson, Affirmative Action Consultant, Office of Institutional Equity and Title IX, dj39@cornell.edu (607) 255-0041.