Who is David Duffield and why is he donating to Cornell University?

David Duffield is a billionaire entrepreneur, co-founder of PeopleSoft and Workday, and a Cornell alumnus who has donated over half a billion dollars to the university to advance its engineering programs.

What is the largest gift ever received by Cornell University?

The largest gift received by Cornell University is David Duffield's recent pledge of $371.5 million, establishing the Cornell David A. Duffield College of Engineering.

How will David Duffield's donation impact Cornell's engineering college?

The donation will establish the Cornell David A. Duffield College of Engineering and create endowment funds to support its operations, academics, and research, aiming to foster innovation and leadership.

Home / Education / Billionaire Gifts Cornell Half-Billion to Boost Engineering

Billionaire Gifts Cornell Half-Billion to Boost Engineering

23 Jan

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Summary

David Duffield pledged $371.5 million to Cornell University.
This historic gift establishes the Cornell David A. Duffield College of Engineering.
The donation aims to advance technological research, innovation, and leadership.

Billionaire Gifts Cornell Half-Billion to Boost Engineering

Billionaire David Duffield has gifted Cornell University $371.5 million, marking the largest single donation in the institution's history. This significant pledge, made in 2026, follows a $100 million gift from last year to expand Duffield Hall at the engineering college.

Duffield's generosity will establish the Cornell David A. Duffield College of Engineering. The funds will also create endowment funds dedicated to supporting the school's operations, academic programs, and research initiatives.

Duffield, a Cornell alumnus from the class of 1962, expressed his desire to advance technological research, innovation, and leadership at his alma mater. He noted the exceptional qualities of Cornellians he has worked with over the years.