Chris Miller

In partnership with other team members, I nurture relationships and raise philanthropic support for Lab strategic priorities. This involves in large part meeting with people who have already contributed to the Lab (as members) to better understand their interests, desire and ability to support our strategic goals. Such conversations often reveal opportunities for greater engagement as citizen scientists, as volunteers and/or as donors. Where there is openness and interest, we work closely and thoughtfully with people to enhance their personal impact via their current and future philanthropic support; we steward what can become long-term relationships.

I have a life-long interest in the outdoors, conservation and sustainability. Prior to this role I spent six years in a similar role at Cornell’s Atkinson Center for a Sustainable Future, and worked in a variety of other roles in Cornell Alumni Affairs and Development in the ten years prior—including the College of Engineering. I am very happy applying my current energies to the mission of the Cornell Lab!

Education

Syracuse University, MBA
Alfred University, Ceramic/Materials Engineering, BS

Beyond the Lab

I love spending time outdoors—hiking, cycling, boating of various kinds, camping, winter sports, gardening and home/yard upkeep, and doing these activities with family. I like the Adirondacks in particular as a region. I value involvement in my community and am a hobby musician.

Inspiration

Steve Gunderson, former President and CEO of the Council of Foundations, described the nuanced difference between charity and philanthropy as this:

Charity tends to be a short-term, emotional, immediate response…whereas philanthropy is much more long-term, more strategic, focused on rebuilding. One of my colleagues says there is charity, which is good, and then there is problem-solving charity, which is called philanthropy…