From 1914 to 1942, Cornell’s Department of Home Economics and later, New York State College of Home Economics, received federal, state, and private funding to create extension programs and scholarships for Hodinǫ̱hsǫ́:nih women. These programs sought to improve family life through scientific research, which largely disregarded Indigenous perspectives and needs.  Despite this, the archival record shows how Hodinǫ̱hsǫ́:nih women made space for themselves and their communities within and outside of the College.

In conjunction with the opening of the new Cornell University Library exhibit “Redressing Histories of Early Hodinǫ̱hsǫ́:nih Women at Cornell, 1914-1942” in the Mann Library lobby, a panel discussion will expand upon the Cornell College of Human Ecology’s early history and examine current institutional practices and contexts that can better support the success, health, and well-being of Indigenous students in higher education today. Panelists will include Meredith Palmer (Tuscarora of Six Nations at Grand River; Department of Geography & Department of Indigenous Studies at the University at Buffalo), Adam Hoffman (Dept. of Psychology, College of Human Ecology at Cornell University), Renata Leitao (Dept. of Human-Centered Design, College of Human Ecology & the American Indian and Indigenous Study Program at Cornell University), with moderator and exhibit curator Lynda Xepoleas (School of Fashion Design and Merchandising at Kent State University).

Immediately following the panel discussion an opening reception will take place in the Mann Library lobby, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.  Co-sponsored by the Cornell College of Human Ecology, the American Indian and Indigenous Studies Program and Cornell University Library, this event is part of the CHE Centennial Celebration of 2024/2025. All are welcome.

The exhibit “Redressing Histories of Early Hodinǫ̱hsǫ́:nih Women at Cornell, 1914-1942” will be viewable in the Mann Library lobby November 4, 2024 through March 2025.  It  can also be browsed online at exhibits.library.cornell.edu/redressing-histories-of-early-haudenosaunee-women-at-cornell-1916-1945.