Charles Esther
Cornell Tech officially opened its MakerLAB on Friday.
This state-of-the-art facility aims to support students and tech entrepreneurs in prototyping their creations.
Inside the lab, a laser printer buzzed as it etched Cornell University’s Tata Innovation Center logo onto a neon orange acrylic slab.
Excitement filled the room as students demonstrated the printer’s capability to work with various materials.
A laser-printed keychain featuring the MakerLAB logo symbolized the spirit of innovation present in the space.
Around half a dozen students busied themselves with their projects, showcasing the lab’s potential as a hub for creative problem-solving.
Celebration Tempered by Concern
While the opening event was cheerful, it was not without concern.
Policies introduced by President Donald Trump’s second administration cast a shadow over the celebration.
The administration’s move to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives threatens federal funding for institutions that support such programs.
Cornell Tech, a strong advocate for DEI, could face serious financial consequences if these policies are enforced.
Research in Jeopardy
Monica Gertz, a postdoctoral fellow, shared her experience developing a wearable device that uses machine learning to help restore speech.
Her startup, MyophonX, is currently supported by Cornell Tech, but future growth is uncertain due to potential funding cutbacks.
“I am bracing myself for when funding pullbacks hit my project,” Gertz said.
She has applied for small loans from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.
“Right now, I can keep this going to a certain point, but I do need to get money so I can start hiring people to really accelerate the pace,” she added.
“My interns are amazing, but I need to start paying people, so there is concern.”
Institutional Support and Economic Impact
Cornell Tech Dean Greg Morrisett addressed attendees from an auditorium within the 15,000-square-foot Tata Innovation Center.
Using oversized scissors, he cut a red ribbon to officially open the MakerLAB.
Reflecting on national politics, Morrisett expressed concern over the Trump administration’s stance on international talent.
“I’m really worried about what’s happening in Washington because we want to attract the best talent from all around the world and keep them here,” he said.
Morrisett highlighted the school’s contribution to New York City’s economy.
According to a recent study, Cornell Tech generates around $750 million annually through startups and alumni ventures.
“We bring in lots of international students, but over half of them stay here in New York City,” Morrisett noted.
“They get jobs here, they work here, and they contribute to the economy.”
Political Support for Academic Freedom
The event also drew several local leaders, including Rep. Jerry Nadler.
Nadler voiced strong opposition to the federal government’s actions against academic institutions.
“We have been witnessing an attack on our academic institutions—threats of funding cuts, stifling of voices, and encroachment on freedom,” Nadler said.
“I recommit myself to using every tool I can to fight back on these attacks.”
He emphasized the importance of investments like the MakerLAB.
These facilities provide essential resources for students, faculty, and the wider campus community to thrive.
Conclusion
Cornell Tech’s MakerLAB represents a beacon of innovation in a challenging political climate.
As students and researchers continue to pursue transformative ideas, institutional and political support will be key to sustaining progress.
