Shanty Mathew Khurana ’04 has built her career in financial services and technology. She spent over twelve years at JPMorgan Chase in various roles, most recently as the Treasury/CIO Chief Data Officer. Shanty also served as Director of Product Analytics & Insights at Northwell Health. She is now completing her MS from Columbia University in Strategic Communications. She serves as the vice-president for the Cornell Club of Long Island and is part of Red Bear Angels, which invests in Cornell entrepreneurs and innovators.

How did you start your journey as a Cornell volunteer?

Beginning with undergrad, I volunteered my time in student government, where I served as secretary for the Class Council two years consecutively and worked at the Public Service Center. My journey continued after graduation when I came back to recruit undergraduates at the engineering school. As a part of the Cornell technology recruitment team at JPMorgan, I was always deeply humbled to come back to campus and recruit exceptional students to the technology teams. The level of rigor and discipline Cornellians have towards their academics and extracurricular activities is astounding. Every year, I would see students push the boundaries for what is deemed impossible. Now transitioning my service to the Long Island community, I am honored to serve as the vice president for the Cornell Club of Long Island.

What has been your favorite volunteer moment?

I really enjoyed the Long Island Vineyards from Vines to Wines event we hosted this year on June 8. The webinar was a great way for alumni to learn about Cornell’s impact on Long Island Vineyards. Even in a remote environment, we had fantastic attendance and alumni enjoyed wine tasting kits from Bedell Cellars. This continued to prove how Cornellians will always unite to show their support for local businesses and give back, even during a pandemic.

How has Cornell impacted who you are today?

We often hear the term resiliency as the key factor in shaping leaders. Cornell University, and my experience as an engineer, have been pivotal in defining my resiliency. The level of academic rigor in the engineering school taught me to persevere and push through, with a mindset of devising optimal solutions when a problem arises.

Is there something that the Cornell Club of Long Island is working on that you’re excited about?

With the workforce shifting to a hi-flex modality, there are a lot of opportunities for alumni to network in ways that accommodate their busy schedules. We have a few networking events in the pipeline, highlighting local Long Island cuisine. In addition, we will have unique mentoring opportunities for recent alumni to connect with seasoned alumni. I encourage all alumni to connect with us and reach out for more details.

What motivates your Cornell philanthropy?

I am deeply motivated by both of my parents, who have been lifelong educators across India, Nigeria, and then for over 30 years in the New York City high school system. Their life’s work has been aligned to Cornell’s mission of educating the next generation of global citizens. I have also been truly inspired by the dedication and commitment displayed by my brother-in-law Vinod Mathew ’97, and sister Gladys Mathew ’99. They continue to give back to the Cornell community in many ways and carry forward the Cornell mission of discovering, preserving, and disseminating knowledge. My family members have instilled the importance of giving back to others as a guiding principle in my life.

What kind of impact do you want to have on the world?

It is my deep desire to motivate and inspire others to give back to the communities around them, in whatever capacity they can. I believe that I am here because of all those who have served before me. It is with that belief that I try to display service and gratitude, in all the work I do.

Do you have a favorite class or extracurricular from your time at Cornell?

Professor Robert Gary Bland’s class on Linear Programming was by far my favorite. The reason behind this is because of how dedicated Professor Bland was to his students. He ensured his students understood core concepts and that they truly enjoyed the classroom atmosphere he provided. He encouraged active participation and fostered a creative environment.

Do you have a message for newly graduated alumni looking to volunteer?

The Cornell community needs you! There is strength in the community, and it is important to harness the energy of Cornellians. We have shared experiences and can guide you through any of the needs you might have. You will always be surprised by how Cornellians unite. Go Big Red!

If you’re interested in learning more about volunteering or giving at Cornell, please fill out this short form and a member of the Northeast Corridor Team will reach out to you.