In September, Cornell Law School welcomed Kevin Sackett as the new associate dean for Alumni Affairs and Development. Sackett, a former key player in fundraising for Big Red Athletics, returns to Cornell after a successful tenure in fundraising and alumni engagement at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT).
“I’m thrilled to join a professional school with such a long-standing tradition of excellence,” said Sackett. “The opportunity to collaborate with seasoned professionals in both the Law School and Alumni Affairs and Development is exciting, and I look forward to engaging with our extensive Cornell Law School alumni network.”
Before joining Cornell Law, Sackett served as the senior director of advancement at RIT, where he led fundraising efforts for several colleges, including the Kate Gleason College of Engineering and the Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences. His leadership played a pivotal role in advancing key institutional priorities and securing critical funding for academic initiatives.
Sackett took the helm during a critical phase of the Law School’s “Do the Greatest Good” campaign, which aims to raise support for key priorities, including fellowships, student scholarships, and clinical programs. Under his direction, the team is closing out what will be a record fundraising year, with over $34.75 million in new gifts and commitments raised so far this fiscal year—still counting through June 30. The campaign, which has now secured more than $156 million, will enter its final year with a strong focus on attracting and retaining world-class faculty, expanding student opportunities, and enhancing the Law School’s clinical offerings—a major philanthropic priority.
Sackett said he was drawn to Cornell Law School for “its unparalleled focus on experiential learning, particularly through its highly regarded clinical programs. These programs not only cultivate exceptional legal advocates but also empower students and alumni to make a lasting impact on individuals, communities, and society at large.”
Looking ahead, Sackett and his team are gearing up for significant alumni events this year both in Ithaca and around the country. “These events are crucial opportunities to celebrate our alumni, strengthen connections, and build momentum for our future efforts,” said Sackett.
Sackett, who previously lived in Lansing, New York, holds an M.S. in finance from the Saunders College of Business at RIT and a B.S. degree from SUNY Cortland. He and his family are excited to return to the Ithaca area. “My family and I loved the Cornell and Ithaca community when we lived here previously and look forward to enjoying some Friday nights cheering on the Big Red in Lynah Rink and Saturday mornings at the Farmer’s Market or relaxing in Myers Park,” Sackett shared.
