Cornell Student & Campus Life Celebrates Transformative Giving Day Impact

Cornell University’s Division of Student & Campus Life (SCL) celebrated a remarkable show of community support on Cornell Giving Day, as donors came together to advance the programs, services, and experiences that shape life and inspire transformation beyond the classroom for all Cornell students.

In total, donors contributed $1,318,542 from 4,320 gifts in support of SCL departments, programs, student organizations, and the SCL Annual Fund. When combined with support for Cornell Athletics teams and Physical Education programs, cornerstones of the student experience within Student & Campus Life, Giving Day results surpassed $4 million from 10,759 donors, underscoring the power of collective philanthropy across campus – and across the globe. 

A highlight of the day was the extraordinary level of student engagement, with more than 1,500 students participating in on‑campus Giving Day events. At Willard Straight Hall, students gathered to celebrate philanthropy, rally support for one another, and write handwritten thank‑you notes to donors, bringing the spirit of gratitude and community to life.

“Giving Day is a powerful reminder of how deeply our community believes in the Cornell student experience,” said Ryan Lombardi, Vice President for Student & Campus Life. “We are profoundly grateful to the alumni, families, faculty, staff, and students whose generosity sustains the programs and organizations that help students find connection, purpose, and sense of belonging at Cornell. Their support makes a meaningful difference in the lives of all Cornell students every single day.”

Beyond the momentum of Giving Day, the philanthropic support donors provide throughout the year allows SCL to remain flexible, innovative, and student‑centered—strengthening programs, launching new initiatives, and adapting resources to ensure every student feels supported, connected, and able to thrive as the student experience continues to grow and change.