Neil Schilke, our esteemed Class President, died unexpectedly on Feb. 7 this year after a brief illness. A graduate of the College of Engineering (mechanical) and an executive at GM for more than 40 years, Neil was in his fourth term as Class President, having served from1977-87 and 2017- present. He also served as Class Vice-President for several terms and as our Cornell Fund Representative. Neil worked tirelessly on behalf of the Class from issues of Cornell governance to assuring our Class legacy. All additional photos purchased by the Class for the Class of 1962 Photography Collection at the Johnson Museum of Art will be made in Neil’s memory.
Neil’s guiding hand, thoughtful presence, and outstanding leadership were ever present. Classmate Evelyn Eskin spoke for us all when she said, “He was always positive, welcoming, and ready to listen to any ideas.” And, from Lauren Coffey, Director/Class Programs, “Having worked with Neil for many years as his Class Programs staff partner, I’ve come to see him as an advocate for his class of ’62. He approached his role as class president with level-headedness, pragmatism, efficiency, and above all else, a dedication to his fellow ’62 officers and classmates. He and his leadership will be missed.” (Photo Credits: Judith Prenske Rich)
David A. Duffield College of Engineering
Following a transformational gift from Dave Duffield, BA ’62, MBA’64, to the College of Engineering, Lynden Archer, Dean of the College, announced that henceforth the college will be named the David A. Duffield College of Engineering. More than $520 million in contributions from Dave – including a new pledge of $371.5 million and a 2025 commitment of $100 million, combined with previous gifts – led to this historic moment. Dave’s newest pledge is the largest single gift in Cornell history! His cumulative giving across Cornell’s colleges now totals $550 million, placing him among the university’s leading all-time donors.
“I welcome the opportunity to help advance technological research, innovation and leadership at Cornell,” said Duffield. “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.” (Photo Credit: Jason Koski)
STATE of THE CLASS of 1962
March 24,2026
Our Class has accomplished a great deal since graduation. Generous donations and consistent giving from classmates over the years have resulted in $321,706,490 total Class-giving as of 6/30/2025 (Dave Duffield’s $371.5 million January 2026 gift not included). The Class has added to that legacy foundation with other Class-based gifts, especially our Photography Collection, Rhodes Fellowship and Baseball Scoreboard. We will continue to concentrate on our Class Legacy, with the focus being the Class of 1962 Photography Fund at the Johnson Museum of Art, as we move toward our 65th reunion (June 10-13, 2027).
The Legacy of the Class of 1962
- Class of 1962 Photography Fund: $150,935 donated to date.
- Frank and Rosa Rhodes: Class of 1962 Cornell Tradition Fellowship: Market Value of this endowment is $277,026 as of 9/30/2025. Student subsidy is projected to be $9944 in 2026; $4000 to our sponsored student and $5944 into the general scholarship funds pool to be used “where needed.”
- Class of 1962 Baseball Scoreboard: located at Booth Field and named for the Class of 1962 through 2032.
Take a moment, please, to send along news and updates of what’s happening with you and your family. And check out Classmate News on our class website for timelier information. Send your entries to: ❖ Judi Prenske Rich (email Judi) | Alumni Directory.