Message to readers

You’ll notice that this issue of the Cornell Report looks different. Why? Last fall more than 700 alumni responded to our readership survey, and we learned many things as we embarked on a redesign.

For example, 90 percent of people who get the Cornell Report read at least part of it. About 60 percent said they get most or all of their information about Cornell from the magazine. We learned that 71 percent of the respondents said they read the print version and 8 percent read it online. Everyone else reads both. Respondents’ three favorite topics were about alumni: class notes, obituaries, and what alumni are doing now.

We learned that some people think the magazine is too liberal, while others think it avoids difficult issues like diversity, political correctness, and racism. Several said it includes only positive stories, or that it was a fundraising vehicle.

We also received positive comments, many of which centered on the magazine’s role in keeping alumni connected to the Hilltop. In fact, 87.7 percent of respondents said the Cornell Report strengthens their connection to the College.

What did the readers find most memorable? Articles on first-generation college students, life on Cornell’s residential campus, and Cornell students studying off campus led the list.

In response we’ve added three alumni features. We’ve refocused and reorganized Alumni News. There’s additional space in the former Letters section, which now includes social media mentions (be sure to tag @cornellcollege in the future if you want to be included). A new On Topic column will query faculty, staff, students, and alumni on one question related to each issue. Perhaps the biggest change is the design. The magazine is slightly taller, and everything has been given a fresh look.

Let me know what you think of the new Cornell Report by contacting me at drexroat@cornellcollege.edu. Your survey input was invaluable and we welcome continued feedback.