The Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) has appointed Matt Braun as the new assistant dean for alumni affairs & development (AA&D). He will assume this post in early November.

Braun will be responsible for strengthening and executing an integrated program of development and alumni-relations programs in support of the mission of the college. He will serve as the chief development officer for and direct the college’s grateful client, engagement and development programs. Braun will work closely with the college’s advisory council, alumni executive board, as well as faculty and staff in academic departments, hospitals and centers.

“Matt’s strategic vision, innovative approaches and proven track record at building relationships will be highly valuable. We are fortunate to have him join our college and help lead efforts to achieve even more ambitious fundraising goals to support our strategic plan.” said Lorin D. Warnick, D.V.M., Ph.D. ’94, Austin O. Hooey Dean of Veterinary Medicine.

Kristen Ford, associate vice president for colleges & units (Cornell AA&D) added, “We look forward to Matt’s continued partnership with colleagues across Cornell University to achieve annual and campaign goals. He has demonstrated an ability to enhance community among alumni and friends while directing successful fundraising programs. This experience positions him to successfully build upon the strong foundation established by the college’s fundraising and engagement team.”

Braun joins CVM from the Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell, where he was the director of development. In that role, he led fundraising, alumni engagement, and many outreach events both locally and internationally. Prior to joining Cornell, Braun was executive director at both the Fleisher Art Memorial in Philadelphia and The History Center in Tompkins County. 

He holds a BFA from Washington University in St. Louis. Matt also completed a post-graduate residency at the Slade School of Art at the University College of London as a Fulbright Scholar.

“I am excited to join the College of Veterinary Medicine at such an inspirational moment in its history,” said Braun.  “I look forward to leading the college’s AA&D team and working closely with Dean Warnick and the many talented faculty and staff over the coming years to help fulfill the college’s ambitious goals.”

Braun succeeds Kevin Mahaney, who capably led the CVM team for 12 years. Since Mahaney’s transition in February to be a principal gifts officer for Cornell University, Alison Smith demonstrated exemplary leadership as she served as the college’s interim assistant dean.