On November 21, 2023, Cornell University commemorated the centennial of Willard Straight Hall, a central hub for student life since its opening. The celebration drew together alumni, current students, faculty, and staff, all eager to honor the building’s legacy as a gathering place.
Daniel Kaufman, a member of the Class of 1989, fondly recalled his time spent at the hall, stating, “Our friends always knew where to find us.” Before the advent of smartphones and social media, the hall served as a consistent meeting point for Cornellians. Kaufman, along with fellow alum Sari Locker from the Class of 1990, participated in the festivities, which included historical displays, a trivia game, and traditional treats reminiscent of their student days.
The atmosphere on the fourth floor was filled with nostalgia. Attendees engaged with various activities, including contributing to a time capsule intended to be opened at the hall’s 150th anniversary in 2075. Visitors also enjoyed popular snacks like Straight Cookies and popcorn, which were once staples in the hall.
Kaufman and Locker, who managed different sections of the hall as student employees, shared their experiences. Kaufman oversaw the service desk, a vital resource where students could purchase snacks, borrow keys, and gather information. Locker managed the Browsing Library, a space where students accessed books, magazines, and films. “I’ve always viewed my jobs as something more than a job,” Kaufman reflected, highlighting the sense of community fostered at Willard Straight.
Current students are also creating their own traditions within the hall. Adelaine Fincham, a student from the Class of 2026, emphasized the hall’s role in connecting students from different backgrounds. “Willard Straight is where you run into people that you met from all different organizations and classes,” she noted, underscoring the hall’s ongoing importance in fostering a vibrant student community.
Willard Straight Hall is named after Willard Dickerman Straight, a member of the Class of 1901 who played a significant role in student life at Cornell. He advocated for a central space for students to connect outside of the classroom. Following his death in 1918, his widow, Dorothy Straight, fulfilled his vision by funding the construction of the hall.
Kaufman and Locker recalled how the history of Willard and Dorothy Straight influenced their time as student employees. “We knew that Dorothy had a passion for community and friendship,” Locker stated. “History informs today,” she added, reflecting on how the hall’s legacy continues to shape the experiences of current students.
The centennial celebration featured a variety of activities, including student artwork displays, musical performances, and the creation of personalized Cornell buttons. Attendees enjoyed a special dinner at Okenshields, featuring culinary favorites like the Bo Burger, named after legendary Cornell football player Irvin “Bo” Roberson from the Class of 1958.
Looking ahead, Cornell plans additional events to mark the centennial, including a screening of “Agents of Change,” which chronicles the 1969 takeover of the hall, and the Perkins Prize award ceremony. The university encourages the community to visit the website for more information about these upcoming events.
Willard Straight Hall remains a cornerstone of student life at Cornell, symbolizing a rich history of community and connection that continues to thrive a century later.
