Cornell College awarded Kahn Branch ’16 with the Young Alumni Achievement Award for his exceptional service and unwavering commitment to youth development and advocacy during Homecoming Weekend 2025. This award recognizes Cornellians who have made significant contributions early in their careers.
Branch came to Cornell from Washington, D.C. He served in the Student Senate, participated in mock trial, contributed to Spiritual Life, and was an active member of BACO—the Black Awareness Cultural Organization. Branch’s peers recognized his leadership and voice, selecting him as the student speaker for Cornell’s 158th Commencement. His wide-ranging interests were reflected in his academic pursuits, earning degrees in international relations, religion, and political philosophy.
Since graduation, Branch has remained connected to his alma mater—attending alumni events, staying engaged with fellow Cornellians, and continuing to support Cornell’s Mock Trial team.
Branch’s lifelong dedication to service is evident in his extensive volunteer work. As a National Committee Member of the YMCA of the USA since 2012, he has focused on civil rights and social action, earning numerous accolades, including the Jason L. Reimer Service to Program Award and the 2019 YMCA of Metropolitan Washington Volunteer of the Year Award. His efforts have had a profound and lasting impact on countless young people, and through his work, he has shared Cornell’s core values with future generations. His commitment to service extends beyond the YMCA. Branch has also been deeply involved in the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, serving in multiple roles to support his community. He accomplished all of this while building his professional career in the Washington, D.C. area, where he currently works at the global law firm McDermott Will & Emery.
As Branch has said, “My dedication to service started at Cornell College, and since then I have tried to live my life by giving to others however I can.”
Khan was unable to attend the 2025 Homecoming Convocation but submitted a video that was played during the ceremony:
