Mary F. Berens, director of alumni affairs, has been named senior campaign officer for Cornell's ambitious $4 billion fund-raising campaign. Her appointment to this newly created position is effective Sept. 1, 2007.

"Mary is someone with 30 years of experience at Cornell, building relationships and understanding with alumni," said Charles Phlegar, vice president for alumni affairs and development (AAD). "She brings a wealth of talents and in-depth knowledge about the university, and that kind of leadership experience is very important to the success of this campaign."

Berens, a 1974 Cornell graduate (B.A., Spanish literature), was appointed director of alumni affairs in 1996 and is a veteran of Cornell's two prior capital campaigns. She joined the AAD staff in 1977 as associate director in the Metropolitan New York Regional Office. She also has served as director of the Southwest/Mountain Regional Office, and as assistant dean of development and alumni affairs for the College of Engineering. In addition she has served as director of college and unit public affairs.

"Cornell's alumni are one of our most precious resources," said Berens, whose parents both attended Cornell. "Throughout my life I have had the good fortune and opportunity to meet thousands of caring and committed alumni, and I look forward to working with them toward our mutual goals and aspirations."

Berens has served as a 1974 class officer since 1979 and is currently a vice president of her class. Locally, she is an active volunteer for the Cornell Catholic Community, Rotary International and Chi Chapter Delta Gamma Property Association. She is married to Paul P. Feeny, Cornell professor of ecology and evolutionary biology.