Build an Islamic safety net for all students as well as a positive Cornell Muslim experience that fosters spiritual growth and prepares alumni to serve the Muslim community and world with purpose and confidence.
In 2007, a group of Cornell Muslim alumni conceived of a financial vehicle through which alumni could support Muslim life at Cornell. We titled the foundation “Diwan” for the diverse array of artistic and executive meanings it conveys, from poetry and calligraphy to a governing body or council in Arabic, Persian and other languages.
The Diwan Foundation was incorporated in 2008, and in 2010 was registered as a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization in the state of New York . On February 24, 2011 – a wintry, Ithaca day that felt all too familiar – directors, students, faculty, and administrators gathered in the Founders Room of Anabel Taylor Hall officially to launch Diwan.
While our Cornell experiences are unique and span many generations, we have each benefitted from a Muslim presence on campus. Because of our gratitude to and fondness for Cornell, we share a desire to improve this experience for future generations.
The Muslim Life Fund supports the Muslim Chaplaincy at Cornell and related campus programming. 5% of donations are repurposed for the Operating Fund, which covers administrative costs of running Diwan such as marketing, IT and outsourced vendors such as accountants.
The Ramadan & Eid Fund promotes Muslim fellowship on campus principally during Ramadan. The Fund is open for contributions year-round. Activities supported by the Fund include iftaars, financing of visiting haafiz to lead taraweeh prayers, Ramadan contests, and events during Eid al-Fitr as well as Eid al-Adha.
Enriching Muslim Life on campus requires all hands on deck. Our Chaplain’s work is made possible by a rich network of supporters – students, alumni, parents, community members and friends. Volunteer with us or become a regular donor to continue growing the impact of this work.