Robert Barker/University Photography

Jim Volckhausen and Forester enjoy Big Red football.

Robert Barker/University Photography

Landon gets the feel of Cornell's Formula SAE race car.

Cornell football may have fallen to Harvard, 24-34, but bright blue skies and warm outdoor temperatures kept spirits high during Employee Celebration, Oct. 12.

About 3,100 Cornell employees, retirees and their families enjoyed barbeque chicken and pasta in Barton Hall after cheering on Big Red football at Schoellkopf Field and women’s and youth soccer at Berman Field. President David Skorton and other senior administrators and staff volunteers served dinner, provided by Cornell Catering.

Also at Barton, children had fun sitting in the cockpit of Cornell’s Formula SAE race car, checking out vehicles from Environmental Health and Safety and the Ithaca Fire Department, and petting golden retrievers from the Cornell Companions pet visitation program and the Golden Retriever Rescue of Central New York. MacGruff, Touchdown the Big Red Bear and Crossroad Clown provided entertainment. Offices that showcased their work included Cornell Police, Cornell Procurement Services and the United Way.

Employee Celebration is sponsored by the Division of Human Resources and Safety Services, Cornell Catering, the Department of Athletics and Physical Education, the Department of Building Care, and Pepsi Co.