Diversity

Statement of Commitment to Affirmative Action, Diversity and Inclusion

from the Director of Cornell Cooperative Extension

Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) has a strong, ongoing commitment to equal opportunity and affirmative action in the development of its policies, programs, procedures and practices through its affiliation with Cornell University and as a part of the national extension system. Specifically, Cornell Cooperative Extension is committed to:

1) equal opportunity for all staff and volunteers; 

2) the elimination of discrimination based on federal, state and local protected statuses such as race, color, religion, political beliefs, national or ethnic origin, sex, gender/gender identity, transgender status, sexual orientation, age, marital or family status, protected veteran status and individuals with disabilities; and 

3) the values of diversity and inclusiveness in employment and in educational programs. Employment and educational opportunities are accessible and provided to all persons. 

CCE believes affirmative action policies are an effective means of aiding groups that have been historically marginalized and excluded from equal access to opportunity.

Chris Watkins Director, Cornell Cooperative Extension 

Statement of Commitment to Affirmative Action, Diversity and Inclusion from the Executive Director of the Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Madison County

The Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Association of Madison County has a strong, ongoing commitment to equal opportunity and affirmative action in the development of its policies, programs, procedures and practices through its affiliation with Cornell University and as a part of the national extension system. Specifically, the Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of MADISON County is committed to:

1) equal opportunity for all staff and volunteers;

2) the elimination of discrimination based on federal, state and local protected statuses such as race, color, religion, political beliefs, national or ethnic origin, sex, gender/gender identity, transgender status, sexual orientation, age, marital or family status, protected veteran status and individuals with disabilities; and 

3) the values of diversity and inclusiveness in employment and in educational programs. Employment and educational opportunities are accessible and provided to all persons. 

CCE believes affirmative action policies are an effective means of aiding groups that have been historically marginalized and excluded from equal access to opportunity.

We work with Cornell Cooperative Extension administration to create a more diverse and inclusive organization statewide among staff, volunteers, and program participants. We fully recognize that an emphasis on diversity and inclusion in CCE’s strategic planning makes good business sense that will yield a more adaptable, productive, and innovative organization to meet the changing needs of our evolving communities. To that end, this Affirmative Action, Diversity and Inclusion Plan addresses compliance as the firm foundation for building a more diverse and inclusive organization and goes beyond to support organizational development and sustained culture change.

I am personally committed to leading an assertive and effective affirmative action policy in Cornell Cooperative Extension of Madison County and expect all staff and volunteers to contribute to our organization’s diversity and inclusion efforts.

Executive Director
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Madison County 

Please feel free to  view the CCE of Madison County Affirmative Action, Diversity and Inclusion Plan .

Last updated January 17, 2023