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Working at Cornell

Winter Break and Gratitude

December 19, 2023

Dear colleagues,

With a new year approaching, I've been reflecting upon what I'm grateful for and my hopes for the future.

Every time I hear or read another inspiring staff story – like those of the building care staff recognized earlier this month, Adrian Durant, Olympian and head coach of men's track and field, and Dr. Jada Hamilton veteran, director of medical services, and interim chief of clinical operations and services at Cornell Health – my pride for our institution grows. I appreciate all of your extraordinary contributions to Cornell. Each one of you helps to create a valuable workplace that I hope enriches your life as much as your presence enhances our Cornell community.

This year, winter break will be Monday, Dec. 25 through Monday, Jan. 1, 2024. I know this is a cherished time for some to unplug, but I also know that many of you must continue to work. I sincerely thank the staff who support essential functions and services that continue to operate over break. By naming any, I risk missing some. Still, I'd like to share my thanks with those who provide human and animal care, keep the campuses safe, and maintain the buildings and laboratories. You provide an invaluable service for our Cornell community, and this does not go unnoticed. Details for pay guidelines during winter break are available below.

Wishing you all the warmth and good cheer of the season.

Christine Lovely

Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer

Winter Break Pay Guidelines

All regular full- and part-time non-academic staff members, and benefits-eligible temporary employees, are eligible to receive holiday pay. Please follow University Policy 6.9, Time Away From Work guidelines, regarding holiday pay for staff, or the relevant bargaining unit contract for bargaining unit employees.A few notable details:

  • For eligible employees, holiday time will auto-generate on all designated holidays over winter break.
  • If non-exempt staff are assigned to work on a holiday, please reference this job aide: How to Record Time Worked on a Holiday.

If you have any questions regarding the holiday schedule, please contact your local HR representative.