Holiday Gathering Guidelines & Recommendations

As we approach the holiday season, we want to take a moment to thank Cornell's faculty and staff for your continued leadership and partnership during this period of financial austerity.  Your efforts to steward our university’s resources thoughtfully while maintaining a strong sense of community are deeply appreciated. 

In keeping with our shared values of stewardship, equity and community, we ask that all holiday gatherings across Colleges, Units, and Departments reflect fiscal responsibility while still celebrating the season and recognizing our teams’ hard work.

To ensure consistency and alignment with our financial principles:

• Focus on connection, not cost.  Celebrate in ways that foster belonging and gratitude.
• No alcohol should be purchased with university funds.
• Avoid excessive or lavish spending.  Keep costs per person minimal.
• Use university space whenever possible rather than off-campus venues.
• Opt for modest food options – no extravagant menus, expensive restaurants, or catered dinners.

 We encourage each department to plan gatherings that bring people together in meaningful and creative ways without adding financial strain.  These moments of connection are vital to sustaining morale and community spirit during challenging times.

Thank you for helping us model the values that define our university community.  Please share this guidance with your respective teams as you begin planning for the upcoming season.

Warm Regards,

L. Rebecca Hann
Interim VP Planning & Budget

Sean Moeller
AVP, Human Resources