Resolution 5

Resolution Regarding Cornell’s Logo

Passed November 24, 2003

Whereas Cornell University was founded to be “an institution where any person can find instruction in any study,”

Whereas the ideals expressed in this founding mission�diversity in the student body, diversity in courses of study, and educational excellence�are to this day keystones in the foundation upon which Cornell University is based,

Whereas members of the Graduate and Professional Student Assembly (GPSA) believe that this founding mission is both admirable for an academic institution and attractive to prospective students,

Whereas members of the GPSA believe that the image that Cornell University makes for itself, including its official logo, should reflect Cornell’s commitment to, and remarkable achievements of, diversity and excellence, but

Whereas Cornell University’s current logo reflects neither Cornell’s founding mission, nor its achievements as an educational institution, nor the many remarkable achievements of its students, alumni, faculty, and staff, and

Whereas the Report of the undergraduate Student Assembly’s Committee on Improving Cornell’s Image documented a number of important problems�both ideological and pragmatic�with the current logo,

Be it therefore resolved that the GPSA recommends that Cornell University immediately begin plans to replace the current logo with a logo that is more reflective of Cornell’s history, status as an educational institution of the highest caliber, and commitment to diversity,

Be it further resolved that the GPSA recommends consideration of a form of the University Crest as the replacement, and

Be it further resolved that the GPSA will seek to work cooperatively with other Cornell Assemblies and administrators to make the process of Cornell’s transition to a new logo as quick, easy, and economical as possible.

Respectfully submitted,

Samuel M. Flaxman, Biological Sciences Representative, GPSA David G. Schmale III, Vice-President, GPSA and Vice-Chair, University Assembly Peter S. Cohl, Chairperson, SA Ad Hoc Committee on Improving Cornell’s Image