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Cornell University

Cornell Experience Modernization Initiative

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Change Starts with Relationships: How People Drive Transitions 

Large-scale change efforts often focus on new systems, processes, and organizational goals. But successful transitions ultimately depend on something more personal: trusted relationships. 

Across Cornell, change networks help connect project teams with the people affected by change, creating opportunities for questions, feedback, and shared understanding. These connections help information flow in both directions and build the trust needed to navigate transitions together. 

One of the most significant transformations underway across Cornell is the Cornell Experience Modernization Initiative (CEMI). Unifying and streamlining administrative tools and processes across colleges, units, and locations is a complex undertaking, yet the Cornell community continues to demonstrate its ability to adapt and move forward together. 

That emphasis on trust, connection, and shared purpose can be found across Cornell, including at Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar. 

“I am continually impressed by how our Qatar Information Technologies & Services (ITS) team takes change in their stride. Whether priorities shift, new initiatives emerge, or circumstances change, team members continue to adapt, support one another and find a way forward,” said Badar Khan, Chief Information Officer, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar. 

“I believe that their resilience comes from trust within our team, strong support from our leadership, and a shared sense of purpose. Our sense of connection across both WCM and Cornell helps people work through change together, and we are proud to be part of that broader community.” 

Watch the CEMI website and Quarterly Report for upcoming stories highlighting change networks in action, including the Workday Change Network and the Donor and Engagement Experience Project (DEEP) Change Network. 

Sarah Christen in a black jacket stands by Badar Khan who wears glasses and a blue jacket, surrounded by Information Technologies & Services colleagues at Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar.

Badar Khan, center, wearing a blue jacket and glasses, is surrounded by Information Technology colleagues representing Ithaca, New York City, and Qatar campuses.