Sport Taekwondo at Cornell train in the Friedman Wrestling Center Students Plants, Paleontology, and Pickleball Paddles: Student Groups in Photos Stories You May Like For the Lynah Faithful, Ice Hockey Is a Matter of Tradition Johnny’s Big Red Grill Sign Is All Aglow—in Ohio Cornellian Crossword: ‘Street Wise’ Our second installment of images captures another snapshot of the Hill’s amazing variety of clubs and activities By Melissa Newcomb In fall 2024, our photo feature spotlighted more than a half-dozen student groups, from mariachis to mushroom hunters. We promised a sequel—and here it is! Throughout the past academic year, University photographers have captured myriad moments with some of Cornell’s more than 1,200 active student groups. Their diverse interests range widely—from martial arts and ballroom dancing to horticulture, housing advocacy, and much more! Here are snapshots of seven active student groups: Hortus Forum This horticulture-focused club gives members a place not only to learn about plants, but get their hands dirty in the greenhouse. It also organizes sales of ornamental plants and hosts craft nights, covering topics like succulent arranging and creating living artwork out of shells and moss. DanceSport This ballroom dancing club holds weekly beginner, intermediate, and advanced lessons as well as social events, such as salsa nights. Members also travel to intercollegiate competitions in the Northeast, to test their moves against other ballroom and Latin dance teams. Pickleball Players of all abilities are welcome to pick up a paddle and enjoy one of the nation’s fastest-growing sports. The group hosts matches, skills clinics, and tournaments, and fields a competitive team on the collegiate tour. On Saturday afternoons, the club holds open play at Ithaca’s Pickleball Mania, owned by alum Lesa Carter, MPS ’94, PhD ’01. TST BOCES Volunteers mentor local high schoolers studying through BOCES (the Board of Cooperative Educational Services) in Tompkins, Seneca, and Tioga counties—teaching them a variety of communication, career, and life skills, such as preparing for job interviews and managing a budget. The teens and their mentors, called “peer buddies,” also do activities like rock climbing and cooking. Pangea Club Stories You May Like For the Lynah Faithful, Ice Hockey Is a Matter of Tradition Johnny’s Big Red Grill Sign Is All Aglow—in Ohio A passion for exploring the geology and paleontology of the Finger Lakes region unites members, who learn about earth and atmospheric sciences and take field trips to observe the phenomena that shaped local areas like Beebe Lake and Buttermilk Falls State Park. The club also hosts educational events on campus. Barbell Club The group draws Cornellians who are into weightlifting, whether casually or competitively. In addition to training together, members share insights about proper form, healthy eating, and more, and participate in social events like bowling, rock climbing, and team dinners. Habitat for Humanity A local affiliate of the national organization, it enables students to help the community by building homes for underserved residents. Members also hold fundraisers for causes like hurricane relief and raise awareness about the importance of affordable housing. Music Production Members—including both musicians and producers—work on projects throughout the year, then collaborate to create an album to showcase their talents and styles. Some of their creations can be heard on Spotify and SoundCloud. Sport Taekwondo Practitioners from all different skill levels—from white belts to black—train together in this club devoted to the Korean martial art. Many join with no experience, but go on to compete against other colleges at tournaments; since the group’s founding in 1987, it has even produced state and national champions. Outing Club Al fresco adventures abound for members of this popular group—founded in 1928—who enjoy forays on campus, throughout the Ithaca area, and as far afield as the Adirondacks and Catskills. Activities include hiking, biking, whitewater rafting, kayaking, skiing, canoeing, climbing, snowshoeing, and more. Top: Students train each other in taekwondo in the Friedman Wrestling Center. (All images by Cornell University photographers Alex Bayer, Noël Heaney, and Sreang Hok.) Published May 2, 2025 Comments Robin, Class of 2018 15 May, 2025 Beautiful glimpse into the heart of Cornell life—these photos capture the spirit, energy, and lasting connections of our campus Love seeing the traditions live on! Reply Leave a Comment Cancel replyOnce your comment is approved, your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *Comment * Name * Class Year Email * Save my name, email, and class year in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ Other stories You may like Bear Hugs What Makes a Beautiful Campus Even Prettier? Hydrangeas! Alumni Hearts on the Hill Campus & Beyond Here’s the Scoop: Earl Grey-Flavored Ice Cream Wins Annual Contest