Cornell University has just received a remarkable $55 million donation to create the Ashley School of Global Development and the Environment. This school combines the existing departments of Global Development and Natural Resources and the Environment. It’s named after Stephen B. Ashley, a dedicated alumnus who has made an outsized impact at Cornell.
President Michael I. Kotlikoff praised Ashley’s commitment, calling the new school a timely and forward-thinking investment. He noted that it will unite expertise in agriculture, environmental, and social sciences to enhance both local and global well-being.
For over fifty years, Ashley has served Cornell in various leadership roles, including as Chairman and CEO of The Ashley Companies. He expressed his excitement about this initiative, highlighting its potential to strengthen connections between agriculture, environmental science, and research.
Benjamin Houlton, the Dean of CALS, revealed that the idea for this school grew from the shared goals and interests among faculty members. He believes the Ashley School will foster innovation and collaboration, addressing significant global challenges like climate change and food security.
Rich Stedman, named interim director, has been engaging with faculty and students to understand their perspectives. He emphasizes the importance of a transdisciplinary approach in tackling issues such as biodiversity loss and sustainable energy solutions in New York.
The Ashley School will support existing undergraduate and graduate programs. Current students remain unaffected, and there are plans to bring in at least ten new faculty members, including specialists in agricultural and environmental economics.
Ashley’s generous giving aligns well with CALS’ mission to address pressing sustainability challenges. Houlton concluded that the school will play a critical role in preparing future leaders to create a sustainable planet.
This bold initiative reflects a broader trend in higher education, where interdisciplinary approaches are becoming essential to tackling complex global issues. As universities adapt, collaborations like this may set new standards for how we educate the next generation of thinkers and problem-solvers.
For further details on Cornell’s expanding initiatives in sustainability, you can visit the Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability.
