Week one: July 7 – 13  |  Week two: July 14 – 20

Featuring an expanded Course Roster, 11 new-to-CAU Faculty, new Premium Courses with exciting inclusions, complimentary courses week over week, & more!

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NEW sections of Art History and Memoir Writing just added!

Acting/Theater

  • Faculty: Bruce Levitt, Professor of Performing & Media Arts

    Week One: July 7 – 13, 2024
    Course Type: Classic
    Class Size: 7 out of 15 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $1,900 includes your course and all specific course costs + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Have you ever performed or had the desire to be on stage? This experientially-based course focuses on learning to develop and perform your own material inspired by a variety of content from autobiographical events, personal observations, visual arts, music, dance, and other presentational forms. Drawing on the actor’s craft, the playwright’s use of language, and the performance artist’s instincts, learn how to build your story from the spark of imagination to a stage-ready solo or ensemble performance. Whether you're an aspiring actor, a seasoned storyteller, or someone seeking a new form of self-expression, The Courage to Create: Transforming Personal Narratives into Performance will guide you through the journey of creating a captivating theatrical performance from the essential building blocks. With an optional performance opportunity at the end of the week, discover the power of your own narrative and enjoy the communal process of transforming your story into a full-bodied devised performance piece.

    Highlights:
    Discover how to mine your life experiences to create compelling stories, from the very personal, to key cultural moments you have experienced.
    Gain insights into basic acting techniques and how they can be used to enhance storytelling—from how to use your voice to punctuate the action, to how to invest in the personal connections necessary to hold audience interest.
    Understand how to develop unique characters that are extensions or reflections of your own persona.
    Enhance your vocal and physical presence to effectively engage an audience.
    Get comfortable utilizing spontaneity and adaptability in storytelling.
    Empower your performance with staging, pacing, and audience interaction to elevate your story.
    Optional Performance Opportunity

    You'll Walk Away With:
    The know-how to dramatize an important aspect of your personal or family history to share at an upcoming reunion, convey a meaningful message with a community group in your area, or entertain your friends with a humorous performance.
    Practical acting skills that can be applied both on and off the stage.
    Enhanced confidence and presence when speaking in public, useful in various aspects of life.
    The collaborative joy of working with others to bring a story to life, fostering teamwork and empathy.
    A performance piece based on your story, ready to be shared with an audience or for further development.
    A community of storytellers with fellow participants, creating a network of like-minded individuals.

    This course gives you the tools and confidence to articulate your story in imaginative ways so that if you choose, you can share it with an audience of your choice—whether on stage, social media, for your friend group, or at a family gathering or community setting. Surprise yourself when you open the door of your creativity in The Courage to Create: Transforming Personal Narratives into Performance.

    This course is ideal for: Theater enthusiasts, actors, writers, content creators, and anyone with a story to share.

    You may also be interested in: Dance/Movement: Movement as Research: Tuning into the Body Through Poetic Imagination, Week Two

Art History

  • Faculty: Nancy Green, Gale & Ira Drukier Curator, Johnson Museum of Art (retired)
    Faculty: Maryterese Pasquale-Brown, Assistant for School Programs Johnson Museum of Art

    Week One: July 7 – 13, 2024
    Week Two: July 14 – 20, 2024
    Course Type: Plus

    Week One Class Size: 16 out of 20 spots left
    Week Two Class Size: 0 out of 20 spots left (Think about taking this course in Week One, or email cauinfo@cornell.edu to be added to the waitlist for the Week Two section.)

    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $2,025 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + class trips + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Take a comprehensive, sensory-filled journey through a transformative era in art history, where your experience of the art is complemented by the tastes, tunes, and literature of the times. Impressionism to Surrealism: Art and Culture, 1880 to the Eve of WWII is an exploration of the radical shifts in art and culture that emerged between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a period marked by profound social, political, and technological changes. Dive into the vibrant world of Impressionism, a movement that revolutionized the perception of light and color in art, and trace the evolution of artistic expression through Post-Impressionism, Fauvism, Cubism, and Dada, culminating in the enigmatic and dream-like realms of Surrealism. By examining key artworks and the influential figures behind them—as well as considering each period through the lens of its popular music, regional flavors, and writings—this course provides a vivid understanding of how these movements reflected and influenced the tumultuous backdrop of their times, setting the stage for modern art as we know it.

    Highlights:
    Explore the arts of Europe across an exciting and volatile 50-year period.
    Examine artists and movements including Whistler, Cassatt, Art Nouveau, German Expressionism, European Modernism, Picasso, Braque, Matisse, Surrealism and Dada, Max Ernst, Klee, Kandinsky, and more.
    Get exclusive access to select collections of Cornell’s renowned Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, including many works typically not on display, and have the unique experience of immersing yourself in this rich period of artistic expression.
    Complement your viewing with a selection of relevant readings from contemporary fiction and non-fiction.
    Enjoy musical selections connected to the times that further amplify cultural and artistic trends providing a comprehensive experience.

    You’ll walk away with:
    A thorough comprehension of key art movements from Impressionism to Surrealism, including their origins, evolution, and impact, as well as an expanded understanding of the era's artistic and cultural milieu.
    Exclusive artistic exposure to rare collections at the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, including works seldom seen by the public.
    Lasting connections and the joy and camaraderie of small-group learning with fellow art enthusiasts.

    Impressionism to Surrealism: Art and Culture, 1880 to the Eve of WWII is an immersive experience that intertwines the visual, auditory, and gustatory elements of the period. This unique blend of education and sensory engagement promises to leave you with a profound appreciation of how these art movements shaped, and were shaped by, their historical context, enriching your perspective on the transformative power of art and culture.

    This course is ideal for: Art lovers and artists, curious learners, day dreamers, and those seeking inspiration.

    Activity Level: Classroom setting, art museum visits, standing and sitting, one field trip to the Cornell Botanic Gardens involving traversing somewhat uneven ground. Related to the culinary inclusions, please notify CAU at the time of your registration of any allergies or dietary preferences.

    You may also be interested in: Black Studies: Black Gospel & Sacred Music Traditions, Week One

Black Studies

  • Faculty: Dr. Ambre Dromgoole, Assistant Professor of Africana Religions and Music, Africana Studies & Research Center

    Week One: July 7 – 13, 2024
    Course Type: Classic
    Class Size: 15 out of 20 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $1,900 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + class trips + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    From Aretha Franklin to the Clark Sisters, learn how to listen differently and develop a deeper understanding of the many sacred music traditions and cultures that exist across the African diaspora. Black Gospel & Sacred Music Traditions will introduce you to a broad array of Black sacred music traditions from gospel music rooted in Afro-Protestant congregations to the ritual drumming of Haitian Vodou practitioners. Tune your ears to the musical offerings of artists like Mary Lou Williams, Alice Coltrane, Nina Simone, Billie Holiday, and more as you consider the scholarship of important thinkers like Alisha Lola Jones, Maya Berry, Jason King, and Katherine J. Hagedorn. Think through the critical commentaries of writers like Ralph Ellison, Alice Walker, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Zora Neale Hurston and gain an expanded perspective on both songs you know well and music you may never have heard before. Through deep listening and interactive class discussions, get the stories inside the music as you learn about the layers of history, culture, and tradition that comprise the sacred music of the African diaspora.

    Highlights:
    “Deep Listening” sessions where you listen to and engage with albums from important and noteworthy artists.
    Excerpted film screenings and a resource list of motion pictures and documentaries that showcase various Black gospel and sacred music traditions.
    Interactive activities that make you think and stimulate discussion as you encounter music in new and innovative ways.
    The chance to hone critical listening skills and enhance your ability to listen to and analyze music critically, recognizing influences, forms, and techniques.
    Pursue expanded musical awareness communally—way more fun than listening alone!
    Enjoy listening to selections you know well as well as those that are new to you. Learn to hear how the pieces fit together across time.

    Black Gospel and Sacred Music Traditions is an exploration filled with sound designed to enhance your appreciation of the significance of music albums, films, and performances, not just as entertainment, but as a key part of cultural phenomena that both shapes and reflects our times.

    You’ll Walk Away With:
    The ability to situate Black gospel and sacred music traditions in their respective cultural contexts.
    Exposure to different types of music and artists who you’ll want to incorporate into your personal music libraries.
    The foundational understanding that Black music—and specifically Black sacred music—is not monolithic, but contains multitudes.

    This course is ideal for: Lovers of music and the creative arts, whether or not they have any musical background or training themselves. Those interested in learning about Black music traditions and Black cultural contributions more broadly.

    Activity Level: Classroom setting.

    You may also be interested in: Choral Ensemble: CAU Summer Choir: Rehearsal & Performance, From Mozart to Caroline Shaw, Week Two

  • Faculty: Michell Chresfield, Assistant Professor, Africana Studies & Research Center

    Week Two: July 14 – 20, 2024
    Course Type: Classic
    Class Size: 19 out of 20 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $1,900 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + class trips + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    The body has been crucially important to Black liberation politics. Not only has it been a site of contestation and control, but it has also served as a productive site of creativity, protest, alliance, and collective action, in ways both real and imagined. Black Body Politics: Theories, Debates, and Possibilities explores the historical debates and theories surrounding the body with a particular focus on how blackness informs bodily meanings and negotiations across the African diaspora. How did the body inform the buying and selling of enslaved people? How did civil rights activists use their bodies to leverage media attention? How does blackness inform cosmetic surgery? What is “Black” about music, and where does the body fit in? Through an engagement with multidisciplinary works on history, politics, art, health, technology, and beauty cultures, this course poses important questions that allow participations to consider the metaphorical and material dimensions of the body while also interrogating the very concept of embodiment, the ways in which individual bodies are constituted and reconstituted over time.

    Course Highlights:
    Gain Historical Context: Understand the integral role of the body in Black liberation movements throughout history.
    Examine Theoretical Foundations: Explore key theories that frame how blackness influences bodily meanings and perceptions.
    Discover Cross-Diaspora Perspectives: Uncover how bodily negotiations and experiences vary across the African diaspora.
    Contrast Metaphorical vs. Material Dimensions: Differentiate between the symbolic significance and the physical realities of the body. Think about how these realities play out in popular culture.
    Investigate Embodiment Concepts: Analyze how individual bodies are constituted and reconstituted within societal frameworks.
    Participate in Interactive Learning: Allow themes from engaging class discussions to continue to inspire you beyond the classroom.

    What You'll Walk Away With:
    In-depth Knowledge: A nuanced understanding of the historical and theoretical aspects of the body in Black liberation politics.
    Analytical Skills: Enhanced ability to critically analyze how blackness impacts bodily perceptions and interactions.
    Broader Perspective: Insights into the diverse experiences and negotiations of the body across the African diaspora.
    Critical Thinking: Improved skills in interrogating the concept of embodiment and the constitution of individual bodies.
    Engagement with Current Issues: Ability to connect historical and theoretical knowledge with contemporary debates and movements.
    Collaborative Experience: Experience from interactive discussions and group projects that foster a deeper comprehension and engagement with the material.

    This course is ideal for:
    Students of African and African Diaspora Studies: Ideal for those pursuing studies in African, African American, or African Diaspora studies who wish to deepen their understanding of the role of the body in Black liberation politics.
    Activists and Community Organizers: Perfect for individuals actively involved in social justice, racial equality, and community organizing who seek a deeper historical and theoretical background.
    Artists and Writers: Suitable for creative professionals who wish to explore and incorporate themes of blackness, embodiment, and liberation in their work.
    Anyone Interested in Social Justice:Open to anyone with a keen interest in understanding the dynamics of race, the body, and liberation politics, regardless of their academic background.

    Activity Level: Classroom setting.

    You may also be interested in: Political Science: The Truth About Fake News, Week One

Culinary Arts

  • Faculty: Emily Wilcox Gier, Associate Professor of Practice and Registered Dietitian, Division of Nutritional Sciences

    Week One: July 7 – 13, 2024
    Course Type: Premium
    Class Size: 11 out of 15 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $2425 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + class trips + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Are you curious about the evidence behind popular diets promoted for better health? Are you challenged by confusing diet recommendations to manage cardiovascular health, weight, or diabetes? Are you interested in honing your meal preparation skills to prepare quick, tasty and healthy meals using local ingredients? Make Cornell's state-of-the-art Discovery Kitchen your kitchen for a week and discover the science and art of delicious and nutritious food for healthy living. Honing your skills under the seasoned guidance of Emily Wilcox Gier, Associate Professor of Practice in the Division of Nutritional Sciences, learn to create quick, flavorful, and health-conscious meals. Drawn from courses taught as part of Cornell’s Registered Dietitian training program, and adapted especially for the CAU audience, Preparing Healthful Cuisine without Sacrificing Flavor and Flair will help you to explore the evidence on how to support your wellness through what you eat and gain a holistic understanding of the culinary arts. All the while, you’ll marvel at the taste, elegance, and nutritional excellence possible in every dish!

    Highlights:
    Learn to Eat to Enhance Your Health: From gut health to diabetes management, gain understanding of the recommended nutritional guidelines and begin to build a repertoire of recipes aligned with health-supportive recommendations.
    How to Conduct a Sensory Evaluation: Learn to use your senses to evaluate what you’ve created and discuss how each recipe demonstrates the dietary guidance. Share your ideas and gain inspiration from your classmates in discussions about how to modify recipes to better fit your preferences.
    Nutritious and Delicious Living: Gain expertise in the art of feeding yourself well, not only to achieve your health goals but also to satiate your senses. Explore the balance between nutrition and indulgence, crafting dishes that nourish both body and soul.
    Tips and Techniques: Learn tips and techniques of a professional chef and acquire skills that will make any kitchen your kingdom. From precise knife work to the art of timing and plating, hone techniques that will bring finesse to your culinary creations.

    You'll Walk Away with:
    Recipes, techniques, and inspiration sure to have a positive impact on your time in the kitchen once you return home.
    A greater understanding of how to eat in alignment with your body’s needs.

    Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, Preparing Healthful Cuisine without Sacrificing Flavor and Flair will strengthen your passion for the culinary arts and equip you with the skills to create remarkable dishes that reflect your commitment to wellness and your love of good food.

    This course is ideal for: Those who identify as “the chef” in their household or look forward to acquiring those skills. Health-conscious foodies will also love it!

    Activity level: The Toni Morrison Hall, ground floor, Discovery Kitchen location includes shared workstations with a dedicated convection oven, five-burner gas range, under-counter refrigerator, sink, and a two-tiered counter.

    Allergies: While the kitchen is not an allergen-free space, faculty will try to accommodate your needs by modifying recipes accordingly. Please notify CAU at the time of your registration of any allergies or dietary preferences.

    You may also be interested in: Culinary Arts: Flavors Across the Map: Exploring Cultural Cuisines in American Cities, Week Two

  • Faculty: Erin Green, PhD, RD, Lecturer and Director of the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD), Division of Nutritional Sciences

    Week Two: July 14 – 20, 2024
    Course Type: Premium
    Class Size: 11 out of 15 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $2,425 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + class trips + 3 community dinners + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Are you intrigued by the rich tapestry of cultural cuisines found across the United States? Are you interested in enhancing your culinary skills to whip up delectable, authentic. and nutritious meals? Make Cornell's state-of-the-art Discovery Kitchen your kitchen for a week and discover the diverse cultural influences woven into the fabric of American cuisine and master the skills to craft meals that not only tantalize the taste buds but also contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Join Dr. Erin Green, a Registered Dietitian and Lecturer in the Division of Nutritional Sciences for a week of learning about both the food and the people that have created wonderful food diversity across America. Drawing from courses integral to Cornell's Registered Dietitian training program, tailored exclusively for the CAU audience, Flavors Across the Map: Exploring Cultural Cuisines in American Cities invites you to delve into the food science and social sciences of cultural foods. Elevate your culinary prowess and embrace the joy of creating flavorful and nourishing dishes rooted in the rich culinary heritage of the United States!

    Highlights:
    Learn How to Cook Unique & Authentic Cultural Dishes: Each day a different city or region of the United States will be highlighted in class with dishes that have been researched and tested by trained nutrition students from diverse backgrounds to represent various cultures. You will learn new cooking techniques, play with new flavors, and build a repertoire of new recipes to bring home with you.
    How to Conduct a Sensory Evaluation: Learn to use your senses to evaluate what you’ve created and discuss how each recipe demonstrates cultural influences embedded in the dishes. Share your ideas and gain inspiration from your classmates in discussions about how to modify recipes to better fit your preferences.
    Tips and Techniques: Transform any kitchen into your kingdom by learning tips and techniques from a Registered Dietitian throughout the week. From precision in knife work to mastering the art of timing and plating, hone skills that add finesse to your culinary creations, drawing inspiration from the multifaceted world of cultural cuisines.
    Learn about New York Regional Foods: Enjoy an exclusive field trip to explore the local food scenes of Central New York first-hand. Learn about the evolution of the local food system and the range of cultural influences in Cornell University’s part of the world.

    You'll Walk Away with:
    Recipes, techniques, and inspiration that you can bring home with you to add some flair and culture to a night at home.
    A greater understanding of how culture, history, and food have been intertwined in America to create a unique food landscape throughout America.


    This course is ideal for: Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of diverse cuisines or just beginning your culinary journey, " Flavors Across the Map: Exploring Cultural Cuisines in American Cities" is designed to ignite your love for cultural foods while enhancing your culinary skills. This course is perfectly tailored for:
    Seasoned Chefs looking to deepen their understanding of cultural nuances in American cuisine.
    Home Cooks and Aspiring Chefs who take pride in being the chef of their household will discover new techniques and cultural insights to enrich their culinary repertoire.
    Kitchen Novices will find a welcoming environment to learn the foundations of preparing flavorful and health-conscious dishes rooted in diverse cultural traditions.
    Individuals Seeking Culinary Inspiration who might cook for pleasure or as a necessity, can use this class to help infuse your dishes with cultural diversity, healthful choices, and a dash of creativity.

    Activity level: The Toni Morrison Hall, ground floor, Discovery Kitchen location includes shared workstations with a dedicated convection oven, five-burner gas range, undercounter refrigerator, sink, and a two-tiered counter.

    Allergies: While the kitchen is not an allergen-free space, faculty will try to accommodate your needs by modifying recipes accordingly. Please notify CAU at the time of your registration of any allergies or dietary preferences.

    You may also be interested in: Culinary Arts: Preparing Healthful Cuisine without Sacrificing Flavor and Flair, Week One

Cycling

  • Faculty: Mark Holton, Co-Director of Cornell Outdoor Education

    Course Type: Plus
    Week Two: July 14 – 20, 2024
    Class Size: 2 out of 10 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $2,025 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + class trips + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    This non-competitive, group cycling experience is for intermediate cyclists who can comfortably cycle 20-30 miles daily over mixed terrain in a cohesive group. Our rides will be primarily on pavement but may also include some packed stone dust bike paths. While we try to choose routes with moderate terrain, we will encounter some hills. We will generally travel at a group pace of around 10-12 mph. With fun included activities all along the way, staying together throughout the journey is key to the adventure. Embarking on a planned cycling route together, participants quickly find a unique bond forming within the group. As they pedal side by side, sharing the rhythm of the journey and the beauty of the surroundings, a sense of camaraderie naturally develops. Bicycling the Byways of Ithaca and Beyond is a shared experience that fosters a deep connection as cyclists encourage each other, share stories, and enjoy the collective thrill of discovery and adventure. The laughter and conversations that echo along the paths are testaments to the friendships being forged, making the journey not just about the physical ride, but also about the warm, lasting relationships that are built along the way.

    Highlights:
    Scenic Routes: Cycle through diverse terrains featuring gorges, waterfalls, and panoramic lake views. Each route is carefully selected to enhance your experience of the Finger Lakes’ natural beauty.
    Expert Guidance: Benefit from the knowledge and expertise of Cornell Outdoor Education’s seasoned bike leaders. Their guidance ensures a safe and enriching cycling experience for intermediate cyclists.
    Group Camaraderie: Join a group of like-minded individuals who share a passion for cycling and the outdoors. This journey fosters a sense of community and mutual support among participants.
    Varied Activities: Beyond cycling, the course includes breaks for picnic lunches in picturesque locations, offering a chance to relax and socialize.
    Contemplative Moments: Take time to soak in the awe-inspiring landscapes. The course encourages moments of contemplation to fully appreciate the serene and majestic environment.
    Cultural and Historical Insights: As you travel through the region, learn about the cultural and historical significance of the Finger Lakes, adding depth to your cycling adventure.

    This course is ideal for: This non-competitive group cycling experience is for intermediate cyclists who are able to travel 20-30 miles daily over mixed terrain in a cohesive group.

    Participant Requirements:
    + Intermediate cycling proficiency
    + You can bring your own bicycle and helmet, or use one of ours
    + Personal cycling clothing (Raincoat, clothing, gloves, etc.)

    Bicycling the Byways of Ithaca and Beyond offers a unique opportunity to explore the Finger Lakes in an immersive, active, and rewarding way. For cycling enthusiasts, this journey promises an adventure filled with breathtaking sights, engaging activities, and lasting memories.

    You may also be interested in: Wine & Food Pairing: Cultivating the Epicurean Palate, Week One

Design/Fabric

  • Faculty: Catherine Kueffer Blumenkamp, Designer/Draper and Lecturer in Human Centered Design
    With Special Guest: Trish Ramsay, Fine Artist

    Week One: July 7 – 13, 2024
    Course Type: Plus
    Class Size: 15 out of 20 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $2,025 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + class trips + 3 community dinners + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Are you interested in picking up a new, fun hobby that anyone can learn regardless of whether they have sewing skills? Do you love to sew and long to learn more about fabric design? Are you fascinated by “Project Runway?” If you answered “yes” to any of those questions, Textile Artistry: Creating Art to Wear is your chance to embark on an exciting journey in textile design and garment construction! Explore the vibrant world of textile surface design and discover the art of draping techniques essential for innovative garment design and construction. Imagine yourself creating unique silk samples and fabric yardage, which will become the foundation of a one-of-a-kind blouse, a true expression of your creativity. No sewing skills required. Beginners welcome!

    What You Will Experience and Achieve:
    Explore Surface Design Techniques: Immerse yourself in the realm of color theory and get hands-on with exciting techniques like low-immersion dyeing, batik, and Itajime Shibori (Japanese clamp resist), transforming plain silk into a canvas of your imagination.
    Craft Your Own Silk Textiles: Guided by expert instruction, create silk samples and yardage that reflect your unique artistic vision.
    Discover the Art of Draping: Feel the fabric in your hands as you explore its sculptural qualities on the human form. Learn draping methods that reveal the aesthetics and functionality of textiles in fashion design.
    Embrace a Zero-Waste Ethos: Adopt sustainable practices through a zero-waste approach to the design process.
    Open to All Skill Levels: Whether you're starting your journey in design or building on existing skills, embrace a beginner's mindset and a willingness to experiment in a nurturing environment.

    Achievements Awaiting You:
    Develop Surface Design Skills: Acquire a foundational understanding of various surface design techniques, creating eye-catching textiles with your personal touch.
    Acquire Draping Skills: Gain insight into fabric properties and their application in design, discovering the basics of draping.
    Unleash Creativity and Collaboration: Take part in creative exercises and collaborative projects that sharpen your design thinking and teamwork abilities.
    Produce Hand-Dyed Silk Creations: Bring your artistic vision to life by crafting hand-dyed silk samples and yardage.
    Design and Construct a Unique Blouse: Use your handmade silks to create a blouse that is not just a garment, but a piece of wearable art.
    Showcase Your Artistic Journey: Display your creations at the end of your journey, celebrating your transformation from concept to exquisite garment.

    This course is ideal for: Crafters, fashion enthusiasts, and anyone interested in developing a new hobby.

    Take Textile Artistry: Creating Art to Wear and step into an immersive experience where your creativity is ignited, practical skills are honed, and your ideas blossom into wearable art.

    Activity Level: Classroom setting with backless stools; some amount of standing as you work on your project.

    You may also be interested in: Entrepreneurship: The Rocky Road of Startups: Culture, Unicorns, Scandals, & Key Fund-Raising Concepts, Week Two

Design/Sustainability

  • Faculty: Roberta Moudry '81, M.A. '90, Ph.D. '95, Architectural Historian

    Week One: July 7 – 13, 2024
    Course Type: Plus
    Class Size: 7 out of 20 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $2,025 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + class trips + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    The global press for sustainability has inspired innovation at an unprecedented pace and volume across an astonishing array of disciplines that touch our daily lives. From AI to biomedical engineering, from water management to bathroom design, the pursuit of sustainability has sparked attempts to improve nearly every aspect of human life and environments. Sense & Sustainability: How Intellect and Action Can Contribute to a Promising Future will open your mind to the influence, impact, and applications of sustainability for human life. Through insightful lectures, dynamic discussions, and an inspiring array of speakers including entrepreneurs, scientists, and conceptual strategists, together we will gain an in-depth appreciation for how far we’ve come, examine what’s in the works now, and look to the future with increased clarity.

    Highlights:
    Ask the big questions about the role of computer science, AI, and plant research in shaping our world. Explore concepts like human-centered design, sustainable intelligence, and the influence of historical thinking on sustainable practices.
    Dive into the economics of sustenance through fascinating guest speakers on topics including global food systems, community-building through grain production, and the principles of local consumption.
    Zoom in on architectural initiatives to replace demolition with resource-conserving “unbuilding” and energy conservation strategies that look to traditional practices. Delve into the exciting field of human-centered design and hear how landscape and urban designers view waterfront development as a means to address rising sea levels and social inequality.
    Heighten your awareness of nature in a guided, experiential field trip to the Cornell Botanic Gardens. Tour sustainable landscapes and hidden gardens on central campus and explore waterfront and rail-to-trail paths nearby.
    Examine the influences of cultural and environmental history as you consider the genre of environmental films and the nature-themed work of Studio Ghibli’s Hayao Miyazaki. Consider the role of environmental and indigenous histories in understanding the present and mapping the future.
    Equip yourself with life tools from strategies for successful energy management to understanding the critical role of water in sustaining life and ecosystems.

    You’ll walk away with:
    New perspectives on sustainability.
    Applicable understanding across diverse fields—art, engineering, economics, design, and more.

    Considering sustainability through a wide range of disciplines, from history and engineering to economics and design, Sense & Sustainability: How Intellect and Action Can Contribute to a Promising Future will underscore the human-centered approach necessary for impactful sustainability efforts. Gain fresh insight into sustainable living models and the potential they hold for the shaping of a promising future.

    This course is ideal for: Thinkers, visionaries, entrepreneurs, and futurists; anyone who loves a good discussion; those in search of more understanding about sustainability.

    Activity Level:Classroom setting; one field trip with one mile of uneven terrain, and one field trip involving a facility tour. Seating opportunities available.

    You may also be interested in: Art History: Impressionism to Surrealism: Art and Culture, 1880 to the Eve of WWII, Week Two

Entrepreneurship

  • Faculty: Zach Shulman ’87, JD’90, Director, Entrepreneurship at Cornell, and Managing Partner, Cayuga Venture Fund

    Week Two: July 14 – 20, 2024
    Course Type: Classic
    Class Size: 24 out of 25 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $1,900 includes your course + all specific course costs+ 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Shark Tank fan? Obsessed with the Theranos and FTX scandals? Daydream about becoming a Founder? If you’re itching to learn more about the inner workings of all things entrepreneurial, this course is for you. The peaks and perils of the entrepreneurial world fill the news cycle with ongoing drama, even as the products, inventions, and innovations produced by startups have literally changed life as we know it. But what does it really take to start a successful company? From the basics of startup ownership and fund-raising to the art of the pitch and how to negotiate with investors, lean into learning from entrepreneurs across multiple industries, trajectories, and backgrounds. Drawing on Cornell’s resource-rich entrepreneurial ecosystem and deep network of alumni and faculty who are entrepreneurs, this course gives you a direct window into the dynamic world of startup innovation, resilience, and strategic vision.

    Hightlights:
    Meet notable entrepreneurs, hear their stories, and ask them questions to gain valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs that shape a business from its inception.
    Engage in interactive discussions with entrepreneurs, course faculty, and each other to develop a toolbox of tactics for overcoming obstacles, navigating uncertainties, and adapting to ever-changing landscapes.
    Get a strong grip on key concepts including how to split the startup pie, dilution and stock issuance, the ins and outs of startup valuations, and the use of convertible debt.
    Examine real-life examples of risk-taking, decision-making, learning from failure, and culture creation.
    And jump into the judge’s hot seat as you adjudicate a session of startup pitches to determine who gets the prize!

    The Rocky Road of Startups from Culture, Unicorns, & Scandals, to Key Fund-Raising Concepts is an energized foray into the exciting world of entrepreneurship where groundbreaking technologies become cutting-edge companies. Get into the minds of company-builders and get inspired by the passion, determination, and creativity that fuel success—and sometimes failure!

    Activity level: Classroom setting.

    You may also be interested in: Design/Sustainability: Sense & Sustainability: How Intellect & Action Can Contribute to a Promising Future, Week One

Film/Jewish Studies

  • Faculty: Elliot Shapiro, Senior Lecturer and Knight Foundation Director of the Writing in the Majors, Knight Institute for Writing in the Disciplines and Jewish Studies

    Week Two: July 14 – 20, 2024
    Course Type: Classic
    Class Size: 14 out of 20 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $1,900 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + class trips + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    “Eliot Shapiro was excellent. He was very good at guiding the discussions and giving everyone a chance to contribute.” ~Participant in Elliot Shapiro’s 2023 CAU Summer course
    Activity level: Classroom setting.

    Bring new meaning to your home move nights and elevate your Netflix experience with critical skills and cultural perspective. Whether you're a film enthusiast or a budding filmmaker, Jewish Films and Filmmakers: Ernst Lubitsch, Billy Wilder, Nora Ephron is your chance to deepen your appreciation of cinema and hone your analytical ability with classmates as committed to lifelong learning as you are. Practice the basics of film analysis, watching for techniques, references, and messages that can deepen your understanding. Learn to spot the signposts of effective visual storytelling as you discuss and consider five comic films directed and/or written and/or produced by three of Hollywood’s most accomplished directors and screenwriters. And enjoy the camaraderie that emerges throughout the week as you add your perspective to lively discussions in a thought-provoking but relaxed classroom environment.

    At the center of this course are:

    Ernst Lubitsch was a Berlin born director who parlayed his success in the German film industry into a move to Hollywood in 1922. Known for his witty, acerbic comedies, he was a mentor and role model for Billy Wilder.

    Billy Wilder was an aspiring Austrian born screenwriter with a few film credits who fled Berlin following the Nazi rise to power. After collaborating with Lubitsch as a screenwriter, Wilder began directing his own screenplays in the 1940s. His career as a writer/director/producer was remarkable for its duration and the quality of his work: Wilder directed films in the 1940s, 50s, 60s, and 70s. As director, screenwriter, or producer, Wilder received twenty-one academy award nominations, winning six.

    Nora Ephron was a journalist and novelist who became a screenwriter and director. Ephron’s debts to Lubitsch and Wilder are evident in her comedies which include allusions to films made by both. Her intellectual debts are also evident in the sharp wit, well-crafted dialogue, and canny insights into social relations characteristic of her best movies.

    All three filmmakers were ethnically and culturally Jewish. Sometimes we see traces (or more than traces) of Jewish content in these movies, while other movies seem to include few references to Jewish culture or Jewish identity. Our study of these films will also be a study in how Jewishness inflects what we see and hear. Students should watch all the films in advance. During class, add your perspective in lively discussions as we build towards a collective thematic analysis. All films are available via streaming services, DVD purchases, etc. In addition to Nora Ephron’s "Heartburn," some supplemental reading may be suggested.

    You’ll walk away with:
    A thought-provoking, engaging, and enjoyable journey into the world of film in the company of other curious participants.
    Insights on the importance of Jewish cultural contributions to the world of cinema.

    Explore films ranging from comic masterpieces to insightful social commentaries in Jewish Films and Filmmakers: Ernst Lubitsch, Billy Wilder, Nora Ephron and prepare for an enlightening experience, where each class discussion enriches your perspective and understanding of both film and culture.

    This course is ideal for: Film buffs, Netflix fans who crave thoughtful conversation about what they’re watching, and anyone who loves a good discussion about the deeper meanings of film.

    Activity Level: Classroom setting

    You may also be interested in: Photography: Pinhole Photography: Early Optics, Contemporary Vision, Week One

Golf

  • Faculty: Matt Baughan, Golf Course Head Pro & Men’s Varsity Coach with Kelly Baughan, and staff of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Course

    Week Two: July 14 – 20, 2024
    Course Type: Plus
    Class Size: 0 out of 15 spots left (Please email cauinfo@cornell.edu to be added to the waitlist for this course.)
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Location: Robert Trent Jones Golf Course, Cornell University
    Price: $2,025 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Unlock your full potential in golf with this game changing clinic, designed for golfers of all skill levels. Whether you're just starting out or seeking to refine your advanced skills, this comprehensive clinic is the perfect opportunity for personal growth in the game. Taking a personalized approach, this course will meet you wherever you are in the sport so that you can learn how to enhance your current strengths and build proficiency in aspects you want to improve. Our experienced instructors will assess your skills and tailor the instruction to meet your specific needs, ensuring maximum growth and development.

    Highlights:
    Skill-Based Grouping for Effective Learning: Participants will be grouped according to their skill levels, ensuring that everyone receives appropriate challenges and support. This method fosters an environment of peer learning and camaraderie, making the learning process both effective and enjoyable.
    Daily Exercises and Individual Attention: Each day begins with a series of well-structured exercises focusing on various aspects of the game, from the fundamentals of swing mechanics to advanced strategies on how to approach a course. Our instructors will provide individual attention, offering feedback and tips tailored to your personal game.
    Practice on a Legendary Golf Course: After morning sessions, take your newly honed skills to the beautiful Robert Trent Jones Golf Course at Cornell. This well-designed course offers a splendid setting to practice what you've learned, with its challenging layout and picturesque scenery.
    Club Policy: To ensure the best learning experience, we encourage you to bring your own clubs. This helps in maintaining consistency in your practice. However, for those who need them, rental clubs are provided, ensuring that everyone has access to quality equipment.
    Clinic Goals: Our primary goal is to help you achieve noticeable improvements in your game. By the end of the clinic, you'll leave with enhanced skills, a deeper understanding of golf strategies, and a renewed passion for the game.
    Who Should Attend: This clinic is ideal for golfers of all skill levels—from novices eager to learn the basics to experienced players aiming to sharpen their skills. It’s a unique opportunity to elevate your game, meet fellow golf enthusiasts, and enjoy a great golf course at a lovely time of year.

    Tee off to a new level of golf mastery in The Game Changing Golf Clinic for All Players and take your game to new heights.

    Activity Level: Walking 5 to 7 miles each day over the somewhat uneven terrain of the golf course.

    You may also be interested in: Sailing: Learning with On-Water Practice, Week One

History

  • Faculty: Corey Ryan Earle '07, Visiting Lecturer in American Studies, University Historian
    Faculty: Evan Fay Earle '02, MS'14, Dr. Peter J. Thaler '56 University Archivist

    Week Two: July 14 – 20, 2024
    Course Type: Plus
    Class Size: 13 out of 20 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $2,025 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + class trips + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Immerse yourself in the University Archives, deep beneath the Arts Quad, and take a journey through time to experience historic treasures from Cornell University’s past. The Story of Cornell in 100 Objects is a hands-on course in which you will explore the pioneering history of Cornell University while also examining the role that libraries and archives play in documenting the past and present, showcasing the university’s rich history and world-class collections. Learn about the different roles of institutional historians and archivists while spending time in the Rare & Manuscript Collections of Cornell’s Kroch Library, where every artifact becomes a portal to understanding the university’s culture, values, and impact.

    Highlights:
    Interact with a curated selection of 100 artifacts that encapsulate Cornell's remarkable evolution since its founding in 1865.
    Experience exclusive access to Cornell’s world-class library collections and archives where you will get the inside stories and experience tangible links to Cornell’s past—from Samuel Morse’s original 1844 telegraph receiver to Hans Bethe’s 1967 Nobel Prize.
    Marvel at the dynamic narrative of the university’s growth, triumphs, and challenges as shared with you by your masterful faculty, two CAU fan-favorites.
    Learn to think like an archivist asking questions such as “What can we learn about Cornell and a particular era from each object? How did it impact the university? And how and why was the object collected and preserved in the first place?”

    What you’ll walk away with:
    The stories behind iconic items across eras, events, and movements, from throughout Cornell University’s history.
    A deeper understanding of Cornell.
    An insider’s glimpse into the captivating world of institutional archives and the satisfaction of learning an array of amazing stories in an entertaining and memorable way.

    This course is ideal for: Big Red cheerleaders, armchair historians, museum enthusiasts, Cornelliana collectors, library explorers, and fun fact aficionados. Class discussion and topics will be shaped and customized based on the interests and backgrounds of the participants.

    Activity level: Classroom setting; some walking to local campus locations.

    You may also be interested in: Agriculture/Food Studies: Plat Du Jour: The Art and Science of Mindful Eating in the Modern Era, Week One

Literature

  • Faculty: Elisha Cohn (she/her), Associate Professor and Associate Chair in the Department of Literatures in English

    Week Two: July 14 – 20, 2024
    Course Type: Classic
    Class Size: 18 out of 20 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $1,900 includes your course + class trips + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Rediscover the joy of talking about books with likeminded enthusiasts in the classroom setting. Go beyond your book club in this condensed version of one of Cornell’s most popular undergraduate courses adapted especially for the CAU audience. Through deeply perceptive lectures, a curated set of excerpted readings, and lively faculty-led discussions, consider profound questions about the purpose of literature in terms of human wellness, illness, medicine, and ethics. Starting with big questions including, “How does literary language offer access to the experience of physical suffering?” and “Can a poem or a novel palliate pain, illness, even the possibility of death?” take a close look at literature centered on medical practices from the early modern period through the twentieth century. Through selected readings across a broad range of genres—including poetry, fiction, theater, nonfiction prose, and critical theory—consider why and how medical practices have changed, and the political, social, and ideological implications these changes may have. From darkly comic narratives of the black plague and accounts of early modern melancholy to nineteenth century discourses about sex, to twentieth century critiques of the mental institution and depictions of the AIDS crisis, think critically about how writers represent pain in language and make meaning out of suffering.

    Highlights:
    Small Group Discussions: Participate in thought-provoking discussions that foster a deeper understanding and personal connection to the readings.
    Reflective Writing Exercises: Engage in writing activities that encourage introspection and personal interpretation of the literary texts.
    Collaborative Analysis: Work together to analyze texts, interpreting deeper meanings and contemporary relevance.
    Critical Thinking and Analysis: Exercise critical thinking skills by examining how literature reflects and influences societal views on illness, medicine, and healing.
    Diverse Literary Exploration: Encounter a range of literary genres and styles, enriching your appreciation for the written word and its power to convey complex themes of health and humanity.
    Cultural and Social Insights: Understand the sociopolitical implications of medical practices as depicted in literature, gaining insight into the interplay between society, culture, and medicine.

    You'll walk away with:
    Personal Enrichment: Engage with literary works that offer profound insights into the human experience of suffering and healing. Discover how literature can be a source of comfort, understanding, and personal revelation in the face of life's challenges.
    Historical Perspectives: Gain a deeper understanding of how medical practices and perceptions of illness and healing have evolved as reflected in diverse literary works.

    Readings may include excerpts from: Kazuo Ishiguro, Never Let Me Go; Tony Kushner, Angels in America; Ling Ma, Severance; Ian McEwan, Saturday; Susan Sontag, Illness as Metaphor and AIDS and its Metaphors

    Medicine in Literature and Culture: Narrating the Art of Care is an opportunity to explore the therapeutic power of literature and its enduring impact on our understanding of health, illness, and the human spirit.

    This course is ideal for: The curious and creative; readers, writers, and those who want to read and write more; anyone who loves a good discussion.

    Activity level: Classroom setting.

    You may also be interested in: Writing: Memoir Writing, Discovering Who You Are on Paper, Week One

Natural History

  • Faculty: Cole Gilbert, Professor of Insect Physiology

    Week Two: July 14 – 20, 2024
    Course Type: Plus
    Class Size: 3 out of 15 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $2,025 includes your course and all specific course costs + class trips + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Let your passion for scientific inquiry out to play as you get grounded in the principles and practices of natural history. Compare skulls across species, walk stream beds in search of fossils, collect botanical samples, and then examine those samples under the microscope. With a state-of-the-art Cornell laboratory as your home base, the Finger Lakes region in upstate New York as your living classroom, and one of CAU’s most beloved faculty-scientists, Cole Gilbert, as your guide, this course will help you to renew and expand your appreciation for the natural world.

    Hightlights:
    Build on your curiosity about geology, microbial fauna, plants, arthropods, and more through engaging morning lectures.
    Go out into the fields, woodlands, and wetlands of the region to observe and collect specimens in a variety of habitats.
    Learn to recognize the stripes of polarized light in a clear blue sky that honeybees use to navigate by.
    Visit campus collections and enjoy access to world-class resources including The Cornell University Museum of Vertebrates at the Lab of Ornithology; The Cornell University Insect Collection, a world-class research and training collection that includes over 7 million insect specimens representing about 200,000 species; and The Timothy N. Heasley Mineralogy Museum, a diverse collection of minerals, fossils, lapidary works, and antique instrumentation.
    Experience the fascinating process of safely attracting and observing nocturnal arthropods at the Cornell Botanic Gardens.
    And go into the lab to look at specimens from the collections and those you’ve collected.

    Feel the awe of the 400-million-year-old sea salt beds beneath your feet and the satisfaction of understanding both how the region’s unique landscape was formed by glaciers 15,000 years ago, and what that meant for the variety of organisms that have made a living on the surface since the glaciers retreated. Whether you’re just finding your footing in nature, or you’re a lifelong wildlife enthusiast, Sensing Wonder through Field Study in the Finger Lakes will broaden your knowledge of the interaction of living organisms with their environment through a real-time experience of the rich and varied natural history of the Finger Lakes region.

    Activity level: Walking one to three miles per day over slightly uneven terrain.

    You may also be interested in: Design/Fabric: Textile Artistry: Creating Art to Wear, Week One

Ornithology

  • Faculty: Sarah Wagner, PhD, Public Information Specialist, Lab of Ornithology

    Week One: July 7 – 13, 2024
    Course Type: Plus
    Class Size: 10 out of 20 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $2,025 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Discover the birds of the Finger Lakes region of New York, which is home to more than 300 species of birds occupying a variety of habitats from natural lakes to gorges, expansive wetlands, farm fields, and even compost piles. Exploring Avian Ecology and Conservation with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology offers a unique opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of birds, covering topics ranging from bird identification and behavior to habitat preferences, current research endeavors, citizen science initiatives, and conservation efforts. Whether you're a novice birder or an experienced ornithologist, this course is tailored to meet the needs of all participants.

    Highlights:
    Bird Identification Techniques: Learn how to identify birds by sight, sound, and behavior through interactive workshops and field excursions. Explore the diverse plumage patterns, vocalizations, and field marks that distinguish different bird species, and gain confidence in your ability to recognize common and uncommon birds in various habitats.
    Understanding Bird Behavior: Discover the intricacies of bird behavior, from courtship displays and nesting strategies to foraging techniques and migratory patterns. Learn how to interpret behavioral cues observed in the field.
    Bird Habitat Preferences: Examine how different species are adapted to specific ecological niches and environmental conditions. Learn about the habitat preferences of various bird species and discover how habitat quality and availability influence bird populations and distributions.
    Current Research Frontiers: Gain insight into cutting-edge research projects and scientific advancements in the field of ornithology. Learn about ongoing studies focused on topics such as bird migration, population dynamics, climate change impacts, and bird communication, and discover how research findings are shaping our understanding of avian ecology and informing conservation strategies.
    Citizen Science Initiatives: Explore the role of citizen science in bird monitoring, research, and conservation efforts. Learn how to participate in citizen science projects such as eBird, NestWatch, and FeederWatch and discover how your observations and data contribute to scientific knowledge and conservation decision-making.
    Bird-Friendly Living: Explore the principles of living a bird-friendly life through gardening, habitat enhancement, decreasing light pollution, and decreasing window strikes.

    Join Exploring Avian Ecology and Conservation with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology for an enriching journey into the fascinating world of birds, where scientific inquiry meets hands-on exploration in the scenic landscapes of the Finger Lakes region. Whether you're a novice birdwatcher, an aspiring ornithologist, or simply curious about the wonders of avian life, this course promises to inspire curiosity, foster discovery, and deepen your appreciation for the remarkable diversity of birds inhabiting our world.

    Activity level: Walking one to three miles per day over slightly uneven terrain.

    You may also be interested in: Jewish Films and Filmmakers: Ernst Lubitsch, Billy Wilder, Nora Ephron, Week Two

Photography

  • Faculty: David Todd, BA and BFA'06, Photographic Artist and eCornell Course Facilitator
    Faculty: Jennifer Gioffre Todd, Photographic Artist and Photography & Media Arts Studio Manager

    Week One: July 7 – 13, 2024
    Course Type: Premium
    Class Size: 7 out of 15 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30; no class Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $2,425 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + class trips + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Go from creative spark to a frame-able portfolio of prints without the benefit of modern camera technology as you discover the fascinating intersection of early optical expertise and contemporary photography in this hands-on studio course. Through tailored instruction to match your abilities and interests under the expert tutelage of two professional artists, Pinhole Photography: Early Optics, Contemporary Vision jumpstarts your creative process, equips you with practical techniques, and helps you to achieve the satisfaction of generating a portfolio of black and white photographs—whether you are a hobbyist, seasoned photographer, or completely new to the art.

    Combining the world’s oldest optics with your personal perspective, you’ll begin by exploring early lens-based imaging tools such as the camera lucida and camera obscura. During a visit to Cornell’s historical collections, gain a deeper insight into how these devices influenced the entire trajectory of art and photography. Turning your eyes to the world at large, you’ll capture new images using pinhole cameras of your own construction. Without modern camera innovations such as a lens, shutter, and light meter, this experience becomes investigative, provocative, and playful. Returning to the darkroom, you’ll learn how to print a portfolio of unique black and white photographs without the aid of negatives. The raw nature of images developed using this novel technique will excite even the most seasoned photographer. Finish the week by sharing an exhibition of your work at CAU Summer’s Farewell Banquet.

    Hightlights:
    Historical Exploration: Dive into the world of early lens-based imaging tools like the camera lucida and camera obscura.
    DIY Camera Building: Construct and use pinhole cameras from unconventional materials like watermelons, coffee cans, blocks of cheese, and cardboard boxes and craft images without modern technology like lenses or shutters.
    Exclusive Access: See images not accessible to the general public and learn the surprising secrets of “Old Master” paintings when you visit Cornell's archived historical collections for an in-depth look at how the earliest cameras shaped art and photography.
    Interactive Sessions: Participate in creative exercises to perfect techniques and increase your understanding of camera attributes. Master aperture, learn to balance depth of field, and explore the technical side of manual camera controls.
    Darkroom Access: Develop a portfolio of unique black and white photographs in Cornell’s state-of-the-art darkroom.
    Resource-Rich Environment: Access to resources from Cornell’s Fine Arts library, customized, expert recommendations on artists, and materials for in-depth learning.
    Exhibition Opportunity: Showcase your work in an end-of-week exhibition for the CAU Summer community.
    Extended Study Option: Continue your journey with Legacy of Light: A Hands-On Course in Black & White Film Photography available during CAU Summer Week Two.

    Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned photographer, Pinhole Photography: Early Optics, Contemporary Vision provides a foundational hands-on grounding in the origins and history of photography and introduces you to novel artistic constraints that double as the seeds of inspiration. Follow your visionary impulse and see the world through a new lens—literally!

    Activity Level: Classroom setting. Standing in the darkroom. Products used in photographic development.

    You may also be interested in: Photography: Legacy of Light: A Hands-On Course in Black & White Film Photography, Week Two

  • Faculty: David Todd, BA and BFA'06, Photographic Artist and eCornell Course Facilitator
    Faculty: Jennifer Gioffre Todd, Photographic Artist and Photography & Media Arts Studio Manager

    Week Two: July 14 – 20, 2024
    Course Type: Premium
    Class Size: 10 out of 15 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30; no class Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $2,425 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + class trips + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Take your taste for vintage vibes to a new level by learning the art of black and white film photography under the skilled guidance of two professional artists. Legacy of Light: A Hands-On Course in Black & White Film Photography is your chance to get into the studio to learn the craft and experience the magic of the darkroom, while also connecting with the rich history and artistry that black and white photography encompasses. With cameras and film provided by CAU, get grounded in the basics of how to use an analog camera and capture images on B&W 35mm film. Build your understanding of the nuances monochrome photography requires. Gain technical skills while also developing a new lens for viewing the world—one that finds beauty in simplicity and power in contrast. Whether you're a passionate hobbyist, an experienced photographer, or just beginning your artistic journey, instruction will be tailored to suit your skill level and artistic curiosity. Finish the week by sharing an exhibition of your work at CAU Summer’s Farewell Banquet.

    Highlights:
    Introduction to Analog Photography: Learn the basics of using 35mm film cameras, understanding exposure, and composing in black and white.
    Artistic Inspiration: Visit Cornell’s acclaimed Herbert S. Johnson Museum of Art to view and analyze original black and white photographs by some of the most celebrated 20th-century masters.
    Creative Expression: Engage in daily exercises that challenge you to capture the world in varying shades of grey.
    Darkroom Techniques & Access: With all the supplies you’ll need provided, experience the thrill of developing and enlarging your negatives in Cornell’s state-of-the-art darkroom to create a portfolio of vibrant silver gelatin prints.
    Resource-Rich Environment: Access to resources from Cornell’s Fine Arts library, customized, expert recommendations on artists, and materials for in-depth learning.
    Exhibition Opportunity: Showcase your work in an end-of-week exhibition for the CAU Summer community.
    Extended Study Option: Start your journey with Pinhole Photography: Early Optics, Contemporary Vision available during CAU Summer Week One.

    You’ll walk away with:
    A solid foundation in using analog cameras and understanding 35mm film.
    Hands-on experience in film development and printmaking.
    Enhanced visual literacy, specifically in black & white aesthetic.
    Your own portfolio of black & white photographs, ready for exhibition.
    A deeper appreciation for the history and art of black & white photography.

    Black and white film photography is a realm where contrasts speak louder than colors. Legacy of Light: A Hands-On Course in Black & White Film Photography will help you to flex your creative muscles as you translate the colorful world into stunning shades of grey.

    Activity Level: Classroom setting. Standing in the darkroom. Products used in photographic development.

    You may also be interested in: Photography: Pinhole Photography: Early Optics, Contemporary Vision, Week One

Politics/Theory

  • Faculty: Michell Chresfield, Assistant Professor, Africana Studies & Research Center

    Week Two: July 14 – 20, 2024
    Course Type: Classic
    Class Size: 19 out of 20 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $1,900 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + class trips + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    The body has been crucially important to Black liberation politics. Not only has it been a site of contestation and control, but it has also served as a productive site of creativity, protest, alliance, and collective action, in ways both real and imagined. Black Body Politics: Theories, Debates, and Possibilities explores the historical debates and theories surrounding the body with a particular focus on how blackness informs bodily meanings and negotiations across the African diaspora. How did the body inform the buying and selling of enslaved people? How did civil rights activists use their bodies to leverage media attention? How does blackness inform cosmetic surgery? What is “Black” about music, and where does the body fit in? Through an engagement with multidisciplinary works on history, politics, art, health, technology, and beauty cultures, this course poses important questions that allow participations to consider the metaphorical and material dimensions of the body while also interrogating the very concept of embodiment, the ways in which individual bodies are constituted and reconstituted over time.

    Course Highlights:
    Gain Historical Context: Understand the integral role of the body in Black liberation movements throughout history.
    Examine Theoretical Foundations: Explore key theories that frame how blackness influences bodily meanings and perceptions.
    Discover Cross-Diaspora Perspectives: Uncover how bodily negotiations and experiences vary across the African diaspora.
    Contrast Metaphorical vs. Material Dimensions: Differentiate between the symbolic significance and the physical realities of the body. Think about how these realities play out in popular culture.
    Investigate Embodiment Concepts: Analyze how individual bodies are constituted and reconstituted within societal frameworks.
    Participate in Interactive Learning: Allow themes from engaging class discussions to continue to inspire you beyond the classroom.

    What You'll Walk Away With:
    In-depth Knowledge: A nuanced understanding of the historical and theoretical aspects of the body in Black liberation politics.
    Analytical Skills: Enhanced ability to critically analyze how blackness impacts bodily perceptions and interactions.
    Broader Perspective: Insights into the diverse experiences and negotiations of the body across the African diaspora.
    Critical Thinking: Improved skills in interrogating the concept of embodiment and the constitution of individual bodies.
    Engagement with Current Issues: Ability to connect historical and theoretical knowledge with contemporary debates and movements.
    Collaborative Experience: Experience from interactive discussions and group projects that foster a deeper comprehension and engagement with the material.

    This course is ideal for:
    Students of African and African Diaspora Studies: Ideal for those pursuing studies in African, African American, or African Diaspora studies who wish to deepen their understanding of the role of the body in Black liberation politics.
    Activists and Community Organizers: Perfect for individuals actively involved in social justice, racial equality, and community organizing who seek a deeper historical and theoretical background.
    Artists and Writers: Suitable for creative professionals who wish to explore and incorporate themes of blackness, embodiment, and liberation in their work.
    Anyone Interested in Social Justice:Open to anyone with a keen interest in understanding the dynamics of race, the body, and liberation politics, regardless of their academic background.

    Activity Level: Classroom setting.

    You may also be interested in: Political Science: The Truth About Fake News, Week One

Political Science

  • Faculty: Alexandra Cirone, Assistant Professor in Government, Faculty Fellow in Democratic Innovations at Yale University

    Week One: July 7 - 13, 2024
    Course Type: Classic
    Class Size: 7 of 50+
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $2,025 includes your course and all specific course costs + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Misinformation is now a feature of modern politics, but to what extent does fake news interfere with our ability to separate fact from fiction? The Truth About Fake News will begin by looking at the historical antecedents of fake news, before covering how unprecedented access to information via digital content, the internet, and social media has changed our current news consumption. It will also survey academic studies in political behavior that analyze both how individuals consume political information from social media, and how partisanship and polarization affect how we read the news. It will also cover how media works in other parts of the world, and help prepare students for the upcoming year of elections that is 2024.

    Highlights:
    Survey of Social Media: Confused by the media landscape? This class will give you a crash course in the types of social media platforms, their benefits and their pitfalls! (No technical experience required)
    Small Group Discussions: Participate in thought-provoking discussions that foster a deeper understanding of the readings, and the ability to share experiences with reading the news
    Active Learning activities: Step into the shoes of a conspiracy theorist with a fun and informal debate activity, and take interactive modules to learn how to engage with others in a polarized world
    Documentary: Work together to analyze modern documentaries on media and propaganda

    You'll Walk Away with:
    New knowledge: Gain new insight into the latest research in fake news, political behavior, and social media
    Historical Perspectives: Gain a deeper understanding of how the media ecosystem has evolved, and the challenges we face in the 21st century
    Preparation for the upcoming election: Learn the ability to tell fact from fiction, and learn how to best access information regarding politics and elections

    Readings may include excerpts from: Frenemies: How Social Media Polarizes America; Social Media and Democracy: The State of the Field, Prospects for Reform; Hashtag Activism; The Hype Machine

    Documentaries may include: Under the Sun, The Social Dilemma, The Great Hack

    This course is ideal for: Anyone interested in politics, or who wants to learn more about social media

    Activity level: Classroom setting.

    You may also be interested in: Cycling: Bicycling the Byways of Ithaca and Beyond, Week Two  

Sailing

  • Faculty: Ivan Sagel, Director and Senior Instructor of the Merrill Family Sailing Center

    Week One: July 7 – 13, 2024
    Course Type: Plus
    Class Size: 3 out of 8 spots left
    Location: The Merrill Family Sailing Center, 1000 East Shore Drive, Ithaca, NY
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $2,025 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + class trips + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Get ready to “set sail” on an exhilarating journey that combines the thrill of the open waters with expert guidance and state-of-the-art facilities. If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to sail, this is your chance to learn the basics necessary to sail 18-26-foot keelboats at Cornell’s Merrill Family Sailing Center. Located on the east shore of Cayuga Lake, the Sailing Center is a premier, national-caliber educational setting for sailing enthusiasts where Cornell’s highly ranked competitive team practices and competes during the academic year. Whether you're a novice eager to learn or you want to refine your sailing skills, Sailing: Learning with On-Water Practice is a unique blend of fun, learning, and adventure and a great opportunity to practice the fundamentals of lake sailing while soaking in the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes.

    Highlights:
    Hands-On Experience: Learn the ropes of sailing including sailing terminology, knots, safety and etiquette, boat handling, sail trimming, and heavy wind considerations, with practical, on-water training.
    Expert Instruction: Led by the seasoned staff of the Sailing Center, gain insights from the same instructors who lead Cornell’s undergraduate courses and teams.
    Stunning Location: Enjoy lessons at one of the best-equipped sailing centers in the region, located on the breathtaking Cayuga Lake.
    Safety First: Emphasis on safety and proper sailing techniques for a worry-free experience.
    Health and Fitness: An active course requiring good health and swimming ability.

    What You'll Walk Away With:
    Confident Sailing Skills: From basic maneuvers to advanced techniques, you'll be equipped to handle a sailboat with confidence.
    Appreciation for Nature: Develop a deeper connection with the outdoors and the serene beauty of Cayuga Lake.
    A Sense of Community: Join a vibrant community of sailing enthusiasts and make new friends.
    Physical Fitness: Enhance your physical well-being through this active and engaging sport.
    Safety Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of sailing safety protocols.

    Glide across the serene waters of Cayuga Lake and feel the wind in your sails and the sun on your face. Take Sailing: Learning with On-Water Practice for the delight of sailing your own craft and the satisfaction of checking “learning to sail” off your bucket list!

    Please Note: Every effort is made to get on-water time each day however classes may be held on shore due to weather/water conditions.

    Activity Level: Good health and swimming ability are required.

    You may also be interested in: Dance/Movement as Research: Tuning into the Body Through Poetic Imagination, Week Two

Wine & Food Pairing

  • Faculty: Kathleen Arnink, Senior Lecturer & Director of Undergraduate Studies, Viticulture and Enology, CALS
    Faculty: Annemarie Morse, International Wine Judge and Educator

    Week One: July 7 – 13, 2024
    Week Two: July 14 – 20, 2024
    Course Type: Premium
    Week One Class Size: 18 out of 20 spots left
    Week Two Class Size: 11 out of 20 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, no class Wednesday afternoon. Gourmet Dinner Wednesday night 6 - 9.
    Price: $2,425 includes your course and all specific course costs + exclusive class trips + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    Delve into an experiential journey of flavors in this Premium Level CAU Summer course to enhance your understanding and appreciation of harmonious wine and food pairing. Cultivating the Epicurean Palate will guide your development in the art and science of marrying well-chosen wines with an exciting assortment of foods. Through engaging lectures, daily tastings, and the opportunity to compare and contrast a wide variety of combinations, seasoned wine enthusiasts and novices alike will gain the knowledge and confidence to create their own harmonious wine and food pairings. Further hone your palate through out-of-the-classroom excursions designed to elevate your senses and enhance your enjoyment at renowned wine properties in the region.

    Your experience of what’s in your wine glass depends on many factors, from glass to plate and scent to setting. What you taste and how you taste it is influenced by everything—from genetics and prior experiences to the creaminess of the cheese you’re nibbling, to your level of attention or distraction in the moment when you take a sip. Join Cultivating the Epicurean Palate and discover for yourself how elements including textures, aroma, and visual appearance interplay to impact what you taste. Learn trusted guidelines, as well as how to value your personal preference and enjoy experimentation.

    Hightlights:
    An exclusive multi-course dining experience accompanied by faculty-guided wine selections at Cornell’s acclaimed Taverna Banfi’s (Wednesday night).
    Travel to visit one of the region’s most renowned wine properties, for a tour and tasting featuring a seated flight of wines paired with creative and seasonal small bites.
    A farewell farm-to-table lunch and guided tasting experience at a property renowned for making wines that are among the most acclaimed in the celebrated Finger Lakes region.

    Cultivating the Epicurean Palate is both an introduction to the chemistry-inflected elements that impact flavor, as well as your chance to embark on a personal flavor-filled quest. Join CAU Summer for this delectable journey of learning and life enrichment.

    Important Note: Participants must be 21 years of age or older to join this course.

    Activity Level: Low impact. Optional walking through vineyard rows. Boarding a van or charter bus.

    Allergies: All major allergens may be encountered during this course. Please notify CAU at the time of your registration of any allergies or dietary preferences. Faculty will make their best effort to reasonably accommodate if notified in advance, although some activities may not work for every diet.

    You may also be interested in: Culinary Arts: Preparing Healthful Cuisine without Sacrificing Flavor and Flair, Week One

Writing

  • Faculty: Charlie Green, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Literatures in English

    Week One: July 7 – 13, 2024
    Week Two: July 14 – 20, 2024 ****NEW OPTION JUST ADDED****
    Course Type: Classic

    Week One Class Size: 0 out of 12 spots left (Think about Week Two or email cauinfo@cornell.edu to be added to the Week One waitlist for this course.)
    Week Two Class Size: 8 out of 12 spots left

    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $1,900 includes your course + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    "The course was a delight and a revelation. One of the most valuable learning experiences that I have had.” ~Participant in Charlie Green’s CAU Summer 2023 course

    Whether you're a seasoned diarist, a first-time writer, or somewhere in between, Memoir Writing: Discovering Who You Are on Paper is designed for you. Through daily prompts, insightful guidance, and exploratory inquiry, discover how to turn your memories into your memoir. Delve deep into the craft of memoir writing, practicing essential techniques that bring your story to life including:

    Navigating Through Time: Learn how to artfully jump through different periods of your life, creating a narrative that's as compelling as it is coherent. You'll discover how to weave past and present seamlessly, giving your memoir a dynamic and engaging structure.
    Harnessing the Power of Memory: Memory is the cornerstone of any memoir. This course teaches you to tap into your memories, no matter how distant, and bring them to the forefront with vivid detail and emotional depth.
    Exploring Varied Points of View: Your story can be told from many angles. We'll explore how changing the point of view can alter the tone and impact of your memoir, helping you to find the most authentic and powerful perspective to tell your story.
    Cultivating Your Unique Style: Every writer has a unique voice. This course helps you to refine yours, ensuring that your memoir is not just a collection of memories, but a reflection of your individuality as a writer.
    Conducting Research to Enrich Your Story: Even a personal memoir benefits from research. Whether it's historical context, geographical details, or cultural elements, get a sense of how to integrate research seamlessly into your narrative, adding layers of authenticity and interest.

    Highlights:
    Join a Cohort of Like minded Writers: Immerse yourself in a nurturing environment where fellow writers become your allies, critics, and friends.
    Receive Supportive, Constructive Feedback: Your writing journey is supported by positive and generous critiques. Here, feedback is a gift, helping you hone your voice and narrative with kindness and respect.
    Narrate Your Life's Journey: This course is your canvas, and your life is the masterpiece. Learn to weave your memories into a narrative that captivates and inspires.
    Learn from Diverse Perspectives: Discover the power of varied life stories as you see how others approach their memoirs. These shared experiences provide a rich tapestry of human experience, adding depth to your own writing.
    Experience the Power of Shared Stories: As you write and share in person in your small group, a powerful communal energy emerges. It's the kind of energy that can only be found in spaces where personal and profound stories are shared.
    Special Welcome Gift: Begin your memoir journey with a beautifully crafted notebook and pen, specially selected by your professor. These aren't just tools; they're symbols of your commitment to telling your story.

    You'll walk away with: A renewed sense of yourself not just as a writer, but as a storyteller with a unique and powerful voice.

    This course is ideal for: Writers and aspiring writers of all levels. The curious and creative.

    Activity level: Classroom setting.

    You may also be interested in: Literature: Medicine in Literature and Culture: Narrating the Art of Care, Week Two

Yoga

  • Faculty: Jenni Sol Cunningham ’08, M.Ed., E-RYT 500, NASM CPT, Adjunct Instructor, Athletics Department

    Week One: July 7 – 13, 2024
    Course Type: Plus
    Class Size: 15 out of 25 spots left
    Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9-12 and 1:30-3:30, except Wednesday afternoon.
    Price: $2,025 includes your course and all specific course costs and equipment rentals + 3 community dinners/events + daily coffee breaks and happy hours + community activities + parking pass + bus pass + gym and pool pass. (Housing and dining apart from community meals are not included.)

    From augmented physical strength, flexibility, and balance, to improved posture, reduced tension, and increased energy levels, the evidence-backed benefits of yoga are well-documented. Increasingly, the meditative elements of yoga are also being celebrated by everyone from corporate teams, the medical community, and Cornell students, to anyone seeking to reduce stress, foster mental clarity, and enhance concentration. Yoga: Movement & Mindfulness for All Levels offers you the chance to try a yoga-derived movement practice customized to your ability as well as a complimentary suite of mindfulness techniques, in a supportive environment under the expert guidance of Jenni Sol Cunningham, Senior Yoga Instructor, E-RYT 500, and NASM CPT. Instruction will be adapted to your needs, whether you are an advanced student of yoga, a complete beginner, or require tailored modifications.

    What your experience will include:
    Movement tailored to your ability and needs: Your balanced course experience will include daily Asana practice—a fluid dance of movement, embracing either the grounding postures of Hatha or the grace of Slow Flow Vinyasa, as inspired by the Ashtanga Yoga practice. Chair yoga and additional modified instruction is available to ensure the wellness and safety of all participants. Advanced students will also enjoy individual customizations attuned to their abilities.
    Breathwork/Pranayama: The ancient practice of breath control is a fundamental component of yoga involving regulating and mastering the breath to influence the flow of vitality in the body. Pranayama techniques encompass various rhythmic breathing exercises designed to enhance physical and mental well-being. These exercises range from energizing breaths like Kapalabhati (Skull Shining Breath) to calming techniques like Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing).
    Meditation, another key aspect of yoga, is the practice of calming the mind through focused means. The mental chatter of the mind is something that is believed to be the source of all human struggle. By calming the mind one can begin to experience a deeper state of relaxation that encourages peaceful interactions with the self and with the world we inhabit.
    Inspired discussions: Throughout the week, read and discuss excerpts from books featured in Cornell’s undergraduate yoga offering: "The Yamas & Niyamas: Exploring Yoga’s Ethical Practice" by Deborah Adele and "A Path with Heart" by Jack Kornfield, widely viewed as the most important book on meditation for the western practitioner.
    Restorative Yoga: Learn effective, easily replicable ways to relieve stress and tension.
    Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR)/Yoga Nidra is an accessible meditation technique beneficial to anyone seeking a deeper state of relaxation and personal insight. This practice involves a systematic method of inducing complete physical, mental, and emotional relaxation. Participants are led through various stages, including setting an intention (Sankalpa), body scanning, breath awareness, and visualizations.

    You'll walk away with:
    Safe and effective fundamental components for developing your own daily yoga, breathwork, and meditation practice.
    The community connection of learning in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.

    Explore a centuries-old tradition with modern day applicability. Whether you're looking to enhance your physical fitness, improve your concentration, or find effective ways to manage daily stress, Yoga: Movement & Mindfulness for All Levels provides practical tools and techniques that can be integrated into your everyday routine. Join us for an experience grounded in expert guidance and evidence-based practices, where you can develop skills for a healthier, more balanced lifestyle in a supportive and inclusive environment.

    This course is ideal for: Anyone who's ever wanted to try yoga and meditation; those who want to revive their practice; those who practice regularly and want to go deeper with customized instruction.

    Activity Level: Each day’s activities will be customized by your instructor to your ability. If you have particular needs or questions, please reach out to CAU at the time of registration.

    You may also be interested in: Black Studies: Black Body Politics: Theories, Debates, and Possibilities Week Two

Register now

Book Your Stay On Campus

Cancellation Policy

  • To cancel your enrollment, send written notification of your wish to withdraw to cauinfo@cornell.edu. Your official date of withdrawal will be the date on which this email is sent. (If you booked your stay at RBG, the Statler, or another accommodation, you must cancel those reservations separately.)

    Course Refund and Guest Activity Fee Refund Schedule:
    If you cancel by Monday, April 1, 2024: Full refund
    If you cancel by Monday, May 20, 2024: 50% refund
    If you cancel by Monday, June 10, 2024: 25% refund
    If you cancel after Monday, June 10, 2024: No refund

    If CAU cancels a course, you may enroll in an open course or receive a full refund.
    If CAU must cancel the program, you will receive a full refund.


    While previously CAU has provided refunds for COVID-related cancellations, CAU is no longer able to accommodate those requests. Instead, we encourage you to purchase the insurance of your choice to protect your investment in CAU Summer programming.

Frequently asked questions

Contact us

  • CAU Summer 2023

    Cornell’s Adult University
    Cornell University Alumni Affairs and Development
    607-255-6260
    cauinfo@cornell.edu