A leading, privately endowed research university and the federal land-grant institution of New York State, Cornell University strives to be a model university for the interweaving of liberal education and fundamental knowledge with practical education and impact on societal and world problems. While offering the highest level of education possible, Cornell has earned a reputation as one of the top ten research institutions in the world.

Cornell Alumni Affairs and Development (AAD), led by Fred Van Sickle, operates with a budget of $63 million. The staff is dedicated to engaging alumni, parents, and friends in the life of Cornell and helping Cornellians connect with one another and with the University throughout their lives. Together with more than 15,000 volunteers, AAD produces hundreds of events; helps Cornellians build community in many ways; and raises funds in support of the University’s mission. With a long, distinguished history, the division remains one of the strongest and most vibrant university alumni affairs and development programs anywhere.

Cornell will publicly announce a university-wide $5B campaign in October 2021 to achieve further success in service to society. As of July 5, 2021, $2.5B has been raised toward this effort which will end in 2026. Fiscal year 2021 was Cornell’s best fundraising year to date, nearly exceeding $800M for the first time; the Annual Fund exceeded $50M, also a historic high for the institution. Additionally, 130K of the 200K undergraduate alumni have been engaged, achieving another set target last year.