CEMI 103: Modernizing the Cornell Digital Experience
The Cornell Experience Modernization Initiative (CEMI or “See Me”) began with a push to streamline overlapping technology systems across campuses. After a year of community input and a six-month assessment by Huron consultancy, a 2025 report confirmed Cornell was ready—technologically and culturally—to unify and modernize the digital tools and systems that shape daily life on every campus.
Cornell community members will hear three phrases used frequently in CEMI discussions: modernize, digital experience, and new tools and best practices. Each represents a key component of improving the way everyone uses technology to accomplish their work and further their learning on a daily basis.
Modernize
Modernization means adopting today’s best tools and practices to support Cornell’s mission. It involves updating legacy and end-of-life systems and streamlining processes to work more efficiently across the university.
The Digital Experience
Every Cornell community member interacts with digital systems—whether registering for classes, managing research, or accessing services. These touchpoints form a shared digital experience that spans campuses and roles.
Using New Tools and Best Practices
Teams across Cornell are reviewing old processes and exploring new solutions. By aligning with current best practices in various areas such as information technology, education, research and administrative and clinical operations, they’re shaping a more connected, user-friendly digital environment for everyone.
Shaped by the Cornell Community
CEMI is building a strong foundation for smarter tools, better processes, and a more connected experience for students, faculty, staff, patients, donors, and researchers. In fact, community members know the current processes and systems best—and what it’s going to take to change and harmonize how we do things on each campus.
Look for the contact hub link on the Get Involved webpage to suggest improvements, add your process insights, volunteer for an activity, or join the mailing list.
Introducing CEMI
Learn more about CEMI concepts in the next article in this series, CEMI 104: Imagine Working Easier or Faster
