Power of babble: Babies elicit simpler speech from adults

Across languages and cultures, parents simplify their speech in response to babies’ babbling and early speech, supporting language development, new Cornell research finds.

Arthur Ruoff, professor and high-pressure scientist, dies at 94

Arthur L. Ruoff, professor emeritus and former director of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, died Jan. 14 in Ithaca. Ruoff was 94.

Former NY Rep. Molinaro visits Brooks to discuss future of Congress

Marcus J. Molinaro, who served one term as representative for New York’s 19th congressional district, visited the Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy Jan. 31 as a guest lecturer in former U.S. Congressman Steve Israel’s course, Political Messaging and Public Policy.

Task force to address sexual assault on campus

The task force is charged with recommending a holistic framework - spanning academic, social, cultural and residential contexts - for addressing and preventing sexual assault on Ithaca's campus.

Limiting lawn management benefits soil ecosystems

Researchers found that less-intense management of turfgrass results in greater abundance and diversity of soil-dwelling organisms.

Frederick Ahl, innovative classics scholar, dies at 83

Frederick M. Ahl, professor of classics emeritus in the College of Arts and Sciences, died on Jan. 27 in Rochester, New York. He was 83.

CCE appoints assistant director of program development and accountability

Celeste Carmichael has been appointed assistant director for Cornell Cooperative Extension, overseeing program development and accountability. 

Around Cornell

NBC News’ Anne Thompson named Distinguished Visiting Journalist

Anne Thompson, NBC News’ chief environmental affairs correspondent, has been named the spring 2025 Zubrow Distinguished Visiting Journalist in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Anne Smalling elected Board of Trustees chair

Anne Meinig Smalling ’87, a third-generation Cornellian with deep ties to the university, was elected the 18th chair of the Cornell Board of Trustees during a special meeting on Feb. 4. She will begin a three-year term as chair on July 1, succeeding Kraig H. Kayser, MBA ’84.