Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences has received a $55 million gift from alumnus Stephen B. Ashley to create the Ashley School of Global Development and the Environment. The new school will combine the Department of Global Development and the Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, marking the largest gift in CALS history.
“Steve Ashley’s decades of leadership and support for Cornell have had a profound impact on the university,” said President Michael I. Kotlikoff. “This investment to create the Ashley School is both timely and visionary, bringing together expertise in agricultural, environmental, and social sciences to benefit communities locally and globally.”
Ashley, chairman and CEO of Rochester-based The Ashley Companies, has dedicated more than 50 years of service to Cornell, including 55 years on the University Council, 16 years on the Board of Trustees, and 10 years co-chairing the Far Above capital campaign.
“My family has had a multigenerational relationship with Cornell,” Ashley said. “I am delighted to support this initiative, which strengthens collaboration across agriculture, environmental science, economics, and research to positively impact communities.”
Benjamin Houlton, Dean of CALS, said the new school will foster cross-disciplinary teaching, research, and extension efforts, addressing global challenges such as climate change, poverty, food and energy security, and biodiversity loss.
“The Ashley School will create a dynamic ecosystem for discovery, experiential learning, and innovation,” Houlton said. “Steve’s vision allows us to leverage research, teaching, and extension to train the next generation and support a sustainable planet for all.”
