Dear Cornell Engineering community,
For nearly 160 years, Cornell Engineering has served as a beacon of opportunity and excellence. In that span of time, the country has experienced multiple wars, economic depressions, pandemics, societal divisions and more. It has been said that crisis reveals character, and with each of these crises, our college has remained focused on developing the people and knowledge necessary to forge a better future.
I found this knowledge steadying over the past year. It was a year that brought unprecedented volatility to the national higher education landscape, including to our own campus. The year also challenged long-held partnerships we’ve pursued with federal government agencies, which have led to uncountable advances in knowledge and technological applications that have created entirely new industries. I am proud, though frankly not at all surprised, to be able to say that – even in this challenging environment – we never lost sight of our mission. In fact, we have been able to measurably advance many of our strategic priorities.
This year’s magazine includes highlights of our progress, including our receipt of the largest philanthropic gift in our college’s history, our accelerating strength in the burgeoning academic field of engineering education research, and our creation of new offices that will equip students with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.
We have also maintained good momentum on key efforts, including our Leadership for All initiative in the Nancy and Bob Selander Center for Engineering Leadership and our cross-campus partnership with Weill Cornell Medicine focused on Engineering Innovations in Medicine. The Leadership for All initiative stands out among these efforts for its potential to ensure that all Cornell Engineering undergraduates, as well as other community members, receive formal training in key leadership skills.
These advances are only possible because of faculty and staff who are fully committed to our mission, and the support of our generous friends and alumni.
Of course, it is one thing to read about progress and yet another to see it up-close and in-process. As dean, I have the honor and privilege of witnessing our Cornell Engineering community making a difference every day. I hope you will consider coming to visit our beautiful campus very soon to experience the palpable sense of positive momentum for yourself.
Best Regards,
Lynden A. Archer
Joseph Silbert Dean of Engineering