Makers in information science

Credit: Provided

Research projects in Cornell Information Science become real objects with the 3D printing of prototypes and high-resolution designs. Support designers and makers who innovate and solve problems with the gift of a Sinterit Lisa 3D printer. One 3D printer: $17,000

For more information, contact CIS Associate Dean of Alumni Affairs and Development Danielle Bluey.

Music on the Arts Quad

In light of COVID-19, it has become necessary for the Department of Music to find a space to allow wind and brass instrumentalists to practice while maintaining safe social distance. The creative solution to this dilemma is to install a large tent on the Arts Quad near Lincoln Hall that will be used for practice by groups such as the Wind Ensemble and Chamber Music Ensembles, as well as for private lessons.

Credit: Cornell University

Similar to the Reunion tents, this sturdy, waterproof tent – along with necessary accessories like chairs and portable heaters – will cost up to $20,000 per month to build and maintain. The department is hoping to keep the tent up for at least two months. Support one month of the effort for $20,000 – or contribute any amount to help keep Cornell musicians safe!

Conservation of an important work of art

In 1969, Al Loving (1935-2005) became the first Black painter to have a solo show at the Whitney Museum of American Art. This untitled abstractionist painting in the Johnson Museum’s permanent collection represents Loving’s early career during the 1960s. It is in need of conservation treatment; museum staff are hoping to preserve it in advance of a planned exhibition of abstract painting and sculpture by Black artists from 1960-80. $4,000

For more information, contact Courtney Campbell.

Credit: Provided

Digitization of campus activism collection

The university archives holds hundreds of films, videos and audio recordings of campus events, visiting speakers, faculty panels and other activities. Dating from the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s, many of these recordings highlight the history of campus activism and efforts to address inequality at Cornell, in the United States and around the world. From lectures by visiting speakers like Muhammad Ali and Stokely Carmichael to films of student rallies and panels on Black theater, affirmative action policies and divestment from South Africa, these recordings provide unique insights into the campus climate at times of great change. These recordings exist on obsolete formats like film, reel-to-reel audiotape and videocassette; funding this project will allow the archives to digitize and preserve selected recordings so that they can be available for research use. $5,000

For more information, contact Jennifer Sawyer.

This story originally appeared in the fall 2020 issue of Ezra magazine.