About David Skorton
On July 1, 2006, David J. Skorton became Cornell University's 12th president. A cardiologist, computer scientist, national leader in research ethics, and jazz musician, Skorton came to Cornell from the University of Iowa, where he served as president. Skorton holds Cornell faculty appointments in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at Weill-Cornell Medical College in New York City and in Biomedical Engineering at the College of Engineering on the Ithaca campus.
More about David Skorton
Visit the Office of the President website for a full biography, photos, video, and more about David Skorton.
History of the Cornell Presidency
More History of the Cornell Presidency
Visit the Office of the President website for biographies of each president, accounts of their inaugurations, and a presidential timeline.
Symbols of the Presidential Office
The University Charter
As the land-grant university of New York State, Cornell was chartered through an act of the New York State Legislature, signed into law by Gov. Reuben E. Fenton on April 27, 1865.
The Great Seal of Cornell University
On October 6, 1868, the Cornell University board of trustees adopted the great seal of the university (also known as the presidential seal), creation of which it had originally authorized in November 1866.
The University Mace and Baton
The Cornell mace and baton are present at events such as commencements and inaugural processions and ceremonies. Both the baton and the mace were designed by Sir Eric Clements in 1962.
More About the Symbols
Visit the Office of the President website for more information regarding the university charter, the great seal, and the university mace and baton.
Photo Gallery
Images from the day's events. Enjoy!
Speeches
Read remarks by Provost Martin, the faculty address by Professor David Feldshuh, and President Skorton's inaugural address.
Video of the Ceremony
Watch the video of the inauguration of David Skorton.
Related News Stories
Full coverage of Inauguration news is provided by the Chronicle Online.
Media Packet
Download the media information packet (PDF).