Engagement, transformative processes and translational research are key themes in Human Ecology's leadership programs for undergraduates. Through formal courses and co-curricular activities, students learn relevant theories, practice skills and reflect on what they have learned.

Courses focus on creativity, communication, critical thinking and team work. In internships and field work, students learn from communities, gain insight and skills and analyze their experiences. While assisting faculty with projects, students learn research and design approaches for problem solving, and they also experience leadership in professional research and practice. Alumni speakers and networks provide views of leadership in action.

Student Awards

Elsie Van Buren Rice Award in Public Speaking

The Elsie Van Buren Rice Award in Public Speaking honors the best student speeches addressing how research in Human Ecology makes a difference in society. Held each spring, the contest awards prizes totaling $2600. 

Flora Rose Prize

The Flora Rose Prize recognizes leadership in service and promise for contributions to the self-fulfillment of future generations. This $750 award is presented to Human Ecology juniors or seniors with outstanding records of leadership accomplishments in public service, including self-initiated activities that have provided significant and sustainable social benefits. 

Florence Halpern Award

The Florence Halpern Award recognizes creative solutions to human problems through supervised fieldwork or community service beyond the Cornell campus. This $750 award is presented to Human Ecology juniors or seniors with an outstanding record of supervised fieldwork or community service that demonstrates innovative and effective models of social change.

Previous award winners

To Apply

Elsie Van Buren Rice Award

Contact the Office of Student and Career Development at 607-255-5471. 

Flora Rose Prize and Florence Halpern Award

Student submission form

Letter of recommendation submission

Contact the Office of Student and Career Development at 607-255-5471 with questions.