What has The Cooper Union made possible?  

As a young alumnus, I certainly didn’t think about that question.  I was grateful for the opportunities my education afforded me, but it wasn’t until I joined the Board years later that I understood the school not only as a gift to its students, but also to society at large.  

"...I desire to make this institution contribute in every way to aid the efforts of youth to acquire useful knowledge, and to find and fill that place in the community where their capacity and talents can be usefully employed with the greatest possible advantage to themselves and the community in which they live." 
Peter Cooper, Letter To The Trustees, April 29, 1859 

Peter Cooper sought to provide an exceptional and accessible education to students from all walks of life, but he saw his project as a means to a greater end – to make the world more enlightened, inclusive, and progressive.  Now, 162 years later, Cooper graduates continue to realize our founder’s vision through their incredible impact on the science, art, and infrastructure of the world around us.  In fact, we’ve decided to gather some of their stories; I encourage you to learn more about just how far-reaching that impact is.

And speaking of possibilities, I am pleased to report that despite the challenges of this past year, Cooper is on a positive trajectory.  The strength of goodwill within our community and increasing support from those new to Cooper bode well for our success.  Our faculty and administration are planning for a return to in-person, on-campus learning for the fall 2021 semester, and we are on track to meet financial goals for the fourth consecutive year.  But to get there, Cooper needs all of us. 

Our goal is to raise $1.6 million by the end of this fiscal year.  
Your gift by June 30, 2021 can make all the difference.  

I have been contributing to Cooper’s Annual Fund since 1998 and being involved as a donor has made me feel truly invested in our community’s shared goals.  I ask you to join me as an active partner in sustaining Peter Cooper’s vision and in helping us reach our fundraising goal this year.  Your contribution of any size expands our resources for the next generation of innovators who will make their mark first at Cooper and then on the world.  Give today, and inspire their possibilities.   

With gratitude, 

Malcolm King EE’97 
Chair of the Board of Trustees 
 
PS: Whether you are a long-time supporter, or are just starting to give to Cooper, we are so grateful for your generosity! Please accept our sincerest thanks if you have already made your gift this fiscal year.