Cornell's Community Impact

“They knocked it out of the park. They ask a lot of questions, are super interested, and see our overall mission for the community. It’s been really, really good for us.” — Mount Vernon Fire Chief Nathan Goodlove, regarding Cornell students who volunteer for the fire department. (Photo by Allan Recalde)

Cornell and the community

Cornell College and the Mount Vernon-Lisbon region share more than geography—we share purpose and a deep-rooted dedication to one another. The college has been a proud part of this town’s story since 1853, contributing not only to its educational landscape but to its cultural, economic, and civic vitality.

We believe that education doesn’t stop in the classroom. Our students, faculty, and staff are active neighbors, collaborators, and contributors to the Mount Vernon-Lisbon community. From volunteering and internships to public events and shared spaces, Cornell is engaged in the progress of the region.

That connection is more than historical—it’s active and ongoing. Our college isn’t just located in this town—we’re woven into its fabric. Every partnership, every shared initiative, is a reflection of our commitment to growing together. We’re creating a future where the college and the community come together as cocreators of progress, equity, and opportunity.

As the town’s oldest and largest employer, and as a nonprofit institution dedicated to lifelong learning, Cornell College is honored to play a central role in helping Mount Vernon remain vibrant, welcoming, and forward-looking. Together, we’re not just preserving a legacy—we’re building one.

Here is how we contributed to the community in 2024-25.

Generating economic activity

Cornell employs over 320 people • 225 alumni live in Mount Vernon-Lisbon • Bon Appétit spent $450,000 on local products • Cornell paid $59,867.74 in county taxes and $81.894.36 in city sewer fees • Cornell is among the top 5 supporters of the CDG (excluding government) and a Cornell employee serves on the Board of Directors • Rams athletic events attracted 30,000 fans to 147 competitions • Over 3,750 people visited campus during events like Homecoming, Commencement, and Admission Days

Providing volunteer resources

4 students served on the Mount Vernon-Lisbon Emergency Medical Services and Mount Vernon Fire Department • 56 Cornell Lunch Buddy students were paired with 64 third graders at Washington Elementary • More than 165 students volunteered approximately 3,891 hours for a value of $116,574

Housing Mount Vernon’s public library

Cole Library is a unique public-private partnership between Cornell's library and the city’s public library • Public library support is greatly enhanced by the college library’s extensive hours, facility (including free public meeting rooms), book collection, and staffing 

Providing educational, cultural, and athletic events

A wide variety of intellectual, cultural, and athletic events were open to residents • Cornell offered summer youth programs music students, and athletes in 9 sports • Residents were welcomed to dine in our award-winning Hilltop Café

Sharing athletic facilities

The Mount Vernon Mustangs and Cornell Rams shared the college’s baseball field and Mount Vernon’s softball field