Cornell University an Ivy League powerhouse nestled in the picturesque Finger Lakes region of Ithaca, New York—stands out from its peers with a unique history and a truly expansive vision. Co-founded in 1865 by Ezra Cornell, a wealthy self-made businessman and telegraph pioneer, and Andrew Dickson White, a diplomat and scholar, the university was born from an audacious and egalitarian motto: “I would found an institution where any person can find instruction in any study.” This commitment to accessibility and breadth has shaped Cornell into the globally renowned, diverse institution it is today, offering an unparalleled range of academic and research opportunities.
A Unique Blend of Private Excellence and Public Service
What truly distinguishes Cornell among the eight Ivy League schools is its distinctive structure. It is the only Ivy League institution that is also a land-grant university, designated as such for the state of New York under the Morrill Act of 1862. This dual identity means that while the majority of its colleges are privately endowed, it also operates four statutory colleges and schools in partnership with the State University of New York (SUNY): the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), the College of Human Ecology, the School of Industrial and Labor Relations (ILR), and the College of Veterinary Medicine. This public-service mission ensures that Cornell’s cutting-edge research and education directly benefit the citizens of New York and, by extension, the world.
Academic Breadth and World-Class Programs
Cornell’s “any study” promise translates into a remarkable spectrum of academic offerings across seven undergraduate colleges and seven graduate divisions. The university is renowned for disciplines that were considered radical for their time, blending practical, vocational studies with classical liberal arts.
While its College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) upholds the core liberal arts tradition, Cornell is equally famous for its highly-ranked specialized schools. The College of Engineering is consistently ranked among the world’s best, producing leaders in technology and innovation. The Peter and Stephanie Nolan School of Hotel Administration, part of the SC Johnson College of Business, is globally recognized as a pioneer in hospitality education. Furthermore, the university maintains a significant presence in New York City with Weill Cornell Medicine, one of the top medical schools and biomedical research centers in the country, and Cornell Tech, a high-tech graduate campus on Roosevelt Island focused on technology, business, law, and design.
This emphasis on diverse and specialized fields means students can pursue interests ranging from astrophysics and ancient history to fiber science and apparel design, all within one vibrant academic community.
Research, Innovation, and Notable Cornellians
As a top-tier research university, Cornell has consistently driven groundbreaking discoveries.9 The university’s faculty and alumni include dozens of Nobel laureates, and its research expenditures are consistently among the highest in the nation. From the discovery of the element promethium to foundational work in superconductivity and particle physics, Cornell’s impact on science and technology is undeniable.
The list of notable alumni is equally impressive, including figures like Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, author Toni Morrison, science communicator Bill Nye (The Science Guy), and numerous CEOs, heads of state, and thought leaders in every imaginable field.
The Cornell Experience: Life in Ithaca
The main campus itself is often described as one of the most beautiful in the nation.11 Perched atop “The Hill” overlooking the tranquil Cayuga Lake, the campus is defined by a mix of stunning Gothic and modern architecture, traversed by deep, scenic gorges and waterfalls—a dramatic backdrop for student life.12
Student culture is rich and active, with over 1,000 clubs and organizations, from academic societies to the spirited Big Red athletic teams.13 Despite its size, the residential college system and numerous traditions—like the annual Dragon Day celebration—foster a strong sense of community.14 The city of Ithaca is a quintessential college town, famous for its progressive culture, natural beauty, and the local mantra, “Ithaca is Gorges.”
In its commitment to be an institution “where any person can find instruction in any study,” Cornell University continues to blend the historical prestige of the Ivy League with an innovative, modern, and profoundly inclusive academic spirit.