Wolfowitz’s Return to Cornell

Among a long list of prestigious Cornell alumni are many top political figures that have done a great deal behind the scenes to affect the future of our world, without receiving the same glory as those in more publicized offices. Perhaps chief among them is Paul Wolfowitz, ‘65, whose three decades of political service have included influential positions ranging from President of the World Bank to Deputy Security of Defense under Bush during the early years of the Iraq War.

While at Cornell, Wolfowitz studied mathematics and chemistry. He lived in the Telluride House, whose faculty mentors at the time included Frances Perkins, the former Secretary of Labor and the first women to be appointed to U.S. Cabinet. At that time, she was serving as a professor in the School of Industrial and Labor relations. Wolfowitz was a pallbearer at her funeral.

Despite his father’s wishes, Wolfowitz gave up his studies to pursue a career in political science. He enrolled in the University of Chicago following his graduation. The decision is captivated well in an article in the Cornell Alumni Magazine.

“One of the things that ultimately led me to leave mathematics and go into political science was thinking I could prevent nuclear war,” Wolfowitz once commented.

Now, Wolfowitz is coming back to Cornell to comment on the future of America’s role as a leader in public policy.

The College Republicans will host “An Evening with Paul Wolfowitz ’65: Is the Era of American Leadership Over” next Thursday, April 12. The event is free and open to the public, and will be held in Bailey Hall starting at 5:30 PM. Tickets are available at Willard Straight Hall. Check out the Facebook event for details.