As 2025 winds down, we’re grateful for you. Thank you for staying informed, speaking up for science, and helping Cornell stay strong.

We wanted you to hear directly from someone on the front lines in Washington, DC. Here’s an update from Dianne Miller, senior director of federal relations:

Congress recesses December 19 without completing spending bills that fund research at the NIH, NSF, Department of Energy, NASA, Department of Defense, and other agencies. Though agency funding doesn’t expire until the end of January, House members and senators are on a tight deadline to resolve issues blocking agreement.Your voice makes a difference. Constituent messages influenced Congress to reject proposed cuts to USDA research. Elected officials need constant reminders that voters like you care about scientific research.

Cornell has the best story to tell: brilliant students, committed faculty, world-class facilities, and hundreds of research results that have changed society. From my position in Cornell’s Office of Federal Relations, it’s much easier to advocate for Cornell when there are many voices echoing this powerful narrative.

Thank you for being part of Cornell Matters.

Dianne

Save the date

A special Cornell Matters event
January 22, 2026, 12:00 p.m. EST

Dianne Miller and Damien Sharpe, from Cornell’s Federal Relations office, will share expert insights and updates straight from DC.

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