Build an Islamic safety net for all students and provide a positive Cornell Muslim experience, which together foster spiritual growth and prepare 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. We strive to keep operating expenses below 5% of donations, which covers administrative costs of running Diwan such as marketing, IT and outsourced vendors such as accountants.
The Ramadan Program Fund promotes Muslim fellowship on campus during Ramadan. The Fund is open for contributions year-round, though fundraising happens around Ramadan. Activities supported by the Fund include iftaars, visiting scholars, visiting haafiz to lead taraweeh prayers, and events during Eid al-Fitr as well as Eid al-Adha.
Diwan’s programs help Muslim students express themselves, develop in their faith and connect with other students and alumni. With the support of parents, alumni and friends, we are able to engage over 600 students each year to prepare them to serve the Muslim community and world with purpose and confidence. Thank you for advancing our impact!
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.