Appreciation Portal Redemption Update

Change to redemption options as of July 1, 2024

For the last six years, the Cornell appreciation portal has allowed staff to recognize each other on the spot for good work, creative ideas/solutions, and building moments to celebrate team members on a job well done – “thank you” goes along way.

To enhance compliance with federal tax guidelines, beginning July 1, 2024, Cornell Store gift cards/vouchers will no longer be available in the Appreciation Portal and in its place will be tangible Cornell Store products.

Any points redeemed for gift cards/vouchers on or before June 30, 2024, will be fulfilled. The Cornell Store will continue to accept these gift cards/vouchers for in-store and online purchases even after July 1, 2024.

Over the years, Cornell has diligently worked with our vendor to implement new functionality and enhance features such as offering more local redemption options, creating customized recognition programs for departments, and encouraging recognition across departments through campus-wide recognition initiative days like Employee Appreciation Day and thanking our volunteer community during significant events like Commencement, Move in, and Slope Day. We will continue with these enhancement efforts in the future and hope to expand on Cornell Store products soon.

Just a friendly reminder!

• Points never expire and roll over every fiscal year. You can also save and build your points for a wish list item!
• Points can be redeemed for any of the redemption options at any time.
• For those ending employment with the university or retiring, you must redeem your points prior to your end date.

FAQs

Q: Why were gift cards removed?

A: The Cornell Store gift card option is being removed to ensure compliance with tax guidelines. You can still use appreciation points to redeem from a wide selection of Cornell Store merchandise.

Q: I redeemed points for a Cornell Store gift card before July 1, but haven't received it yet. Can I still use it once I receive it?

A: Yes! Any gift card redeemed before July 1 will still be active and honored even if you receive it after July 1. Gift cards can still be used in-store or online after July 1 if you have them in your possession .

Q: What can I redeem points for at the Cornell Store after the gift card option isn’t available?

A: You’ll be able to choose from a selection of Cornell notepads, tumblers, coffee mugs, seasonal items, socks, baseball caps, backpacks and more. We plan to expand options to include apparel, tech, and more in the near future.

Q: How do I return or exchange an item from the Cornell Store that I received via the appreciation portal?

A: Please email store-orders@cornell.edu letting them know you wish to return an item redeemed from the appreciation portal. They will follow up with instructions.