Cornell legacies: Jack Bickel ’24, Will Bickel ’25

By Cornell Report Staff

Jack Bickel ’24
Will Bickel ’25
John “Corky” Bickel ’66, Grandfather

Will Bickel ’25 (left) and Jack Bickel ’24 (right) with their grandfather John “Corky” Bickel ’66 at King Chapel.
Will Bickel ’25 (left) and Jack Bickel ’24 (right) with their grandfather John “Corky” Bickel ’66 at King Chapel.

Jack: So much must have changed between my grandfather’s time at Cornell and mine, with some of the most significant changes being related to the use of computers and technology and (as demonstrated last year) being able to take classes off-campus virtually. 

My connection to family members who went to Cornell is what prompted me to tour campus in the first place, and ultimately what helped me to transfer to Cornell after my first year in college, because I know that Cornell can help people grow into the best versions of themselves. This has proven to be the case for me, and it’s been fun sharing stories with my grandfather of what activities still go on at campus and what has changed since his time on the Hilltop.

Will: My grandfather played a large role in me choosing Cornell. He motivated me to come take visits and explore Cornell as an option. I know he would support me regardless of where I went to school, however, I know he is very proud I chose Cornell. By coming to Cornell I am able to continue a tradition my grandfather started, and this played a major role in my college decision.

Brothers Jack Bickel ’24 (left) and Will Bickel ’25 (right) with their grandfather John “Corky” Bickel ’66 on campus.
Brothers Jack Bickel ’24 (left) and Will Bickel ’25 (right) with their grandfather John “Corky” Bickel ’66 on campus.

Similar to my grandfather, I am getting a meaningful education at Cornell that will help set me up for success now and later in life. I believe that the largest difference that we have in our experiences is that I am continuing to play soccer alongside getting my degree.

John “Corky”: Will and Jack have the privilege of living and studying on an iconic, idyllic physical campus, being taught in small classes, living in the dormitory, communal dining, and developing friendships with fellow students. Just about everything else is different from my experience, beginning with studying One Course At A Time.

Having grandsons who are fellow Cornellians has added a dimension to our relationships. It gives us an additional common experience. I take immense pride that we now have three consecutive generations who are Cornellians—me, our daughter Kristin Bickel Clark ’89, our son, John P. Bickel ’93 (who finished his degree at Luther), and our two grandsons. 

I know a Cornell education will give my grandsons the tools to enable them to lead happy, successful, satisfying lives. Lives filled with and appreciation for lifelong curiosity, compassion, and happiness.  

Read about five other Cornell legacy families