The Skorton Center for Health Initiatives, located on Ho Plaza, is a hub within Cornell Health focused on supporting students before health problems arise—through health education, public engagement, and research. Unlike a medical clinic, the Skorton Center is rooted in prevention, education, and outreach. Its mission is to equip students with tools to manage stress, build resilience, strengthen relationships, and care for their physical and emotional well-being so they can thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

College is new and unfamiliar—you’re balancing independence, academics, social transitions, and sometimes even health issues for the first time. The Skorton Center helps you navigate this transition. From peer programs and skill-building workshops to public health campaigns and faculty training, their work ensures the Cornell environment supports student wellbeing at every level.

Key Areas of Support 

The Center provides resources and programs in: 

• Mental health promotion
• Coping and stress management skills
• Sexual health education
• Substance use and recovery support
• Neurodiversity and accessibility inclusivity  

Key Resources for New Students 

New to campus? The Center works closely with Cornell Health to help you navigate accessing care from scheduling appointments to understanding insurance and billing, to who to contact in a crisis.  

Many new students start with “Let’s Talk”—a free, informal drop-in consultation with a counselor in various campus locations. It's a great way to get support without making a formal appointment. 

The Skorton Center also offers group programs like “Notice & Respond” that teach students and staff how to recognize distress in peers and connect them to help. Whether you're struggling with stress, homesickness, or navigating identity-related challenges, there are people ready to listen. 

Inclusive, Student-Centered Approach 

The Center recognizes that students come to Cornell with different lived experiences, health needs, and identities. It develops targeted resources for: international students, students of color, LGBTQ+ students, student-athletes, students with chronic health conditions or disabilities, and parents and families. 

In partnership with Student Disability Services (SDS), the Center helps ensure programs and support are accessible and inclusive. There are also workshops and resources tailored for students who identify as neurodivergent, such as those with ADHD or on the autism spectrum. 

Common Health Topics and Tools 

The Skorton Center maintains a robust Fact Sheet Library covering 100+ topics including: building resilience, sleep, stress management, and nutrition. You can also access on-campus pharmacy services, primary care providers, and short-term counseling through CAPS. 

Who’s Behind the Care? 

Cornell Health’s team includes over 250 professionals including physicians, counselors, nurses, technicians, pharmacists, and physical therapists. The Skorton Center works alongside this clinical team to extend care beyond appointments into campus life, community, and culture. 

Final Thoughts for New Students

• The Skorton Center helps students thrive by promoting education, prevention, and community care.
• New students can explore drop-in support, health workshops, and identity-based resources.
• Bookmark essential links like the Self-Care Guides, Let’s Talk, and Cornell Health services.

Start early. Stay connected. To learn more, visit the Skorton Center homepage!