Cornell University

I was the eleventh president of Cornell University.  


During my presidency, Cornell conducted a year-long, community-wide process of strategic reflection known as the "Call to Engagement."  


As a result of the Call to Engagement, the university committed itself to:



During my presidency the university also set new records for fundraising success (ranking among the nation's most successful universities) and for applicant volume.


Cornell published a collection of my thoughts as president in a book entitled An Optimistic Heart.