Cornell University has announced that David A. Duffield ’62, MBA ’64 is giving more than $520 million in total contributions — including a new $371.5 million pledge and a 2025 commitment of $100 million — to establish the Cornell David A. Duffield College of Engineering. The new pledge is the largest single gift in Cornell history.
With these contributions, Duffield’s cumulative giving across the university now totals $550 million, placing him among Cornell’s all-time leading donors.
“I welcome the opportunity to help advance technological research, innovation and leadership at Cornell,” Duffield said. “I’ve worked closely with many Cornellians over the years, and they consistently demonstrate exceptional leadership, creativity and problem-solving abilities. It’s a privilege to give back to my alma mater in ways that strengthen the university’s commitment to excellence.”
Duffield’s previous support has already enabled and named multiple spaces and programs on Cornell’s Ithaca campus, including Duffield Hall. Completed in 2004, Duffield Hall houses one of the nation’s most advanced research and teaching facilities for nanoscale science and engineering. Plans to update and expand the building, announced in March 2025, are now underway and are fully funded by Duffield’s $100 million commitment at the time — then the largest gift ever received by the college.
“We are immensely proud to carry David Duffield’s name as we shape the future of this great college,” said Lynden Archer, Joseph Silbert Dean of Engineering. “A supporter and friend like Dave, who is so deeply committed to our mission to develop the people and knowledge needed to forge a better future, comes along once in a college’s history. His foresight and generosity will achieve untold good, and will do so in perpetuity.”
Duffield’s latest gift will primarily support endowment funds, including a $250 million Duffield Legacy Fund to provide ongoing resources for strategic opportunities and an additional $50 million for educational priorities.
The remaining funds will establish the Duffield Launch Fund, which will support immediate initiatives, including updates to the college’s physical infrastructure, enhancements to research facilities, faculty and student support, and advancement of research in areas such as quantum engineering, human health, and artificial intelligence and data-driven decision-making.
