ITHACA, N.Y. -- The Cornell University Department of Athletics and Physical Education proudly announces the formation of the Big Red Champions Council (BRCC), a new advisory body composed of distinguished alumni, donors, and friends committed to strengthening the future of Cornell Athletics, enhancing the student-athlete experience, and deepening lifelong engagement with the Big Red.

The Big Red Champions Council brings together a select group of accomplished leaders who will serve as trusted partners to the Meakem & Smith Director of Athletics and Physical Education. United by a shared passion for Cornell and belief in the transformative power of athletics, the Council will provide strategic guidance, advocacy, and philanthropic leadership at a pivotal moment for Division I athletics and the Ivy League.

"We have created the Big Red Champions Council, consistent with Cornell's commitment to thoughtful leadership, collaboration, and stewardship," said Dr. Nicki Moore, Meakem & Smith Director of Athletics and Physical Education. "This Council brings together extraordinary Cornellians whose experience, insight, and generosity will help us elevate the impact of athletics on our students and the broader university community."
 

Purpose and Vision

The Big Red Champions Council is designed to:

• Serve as a strategic advisory resource to Athletics and Physical Education leadership

• Strengthen connections between Cornell Athletics and alumni, donors, and fans

• Support fundraising initiatives that advance student-athlete wellbeing, competitive excellence, and facilities

• Advocate for Cornell Athletics within national, alumni, and donor communities

• Help position Cornell Athletics for long-term sustainability and success amid a rapidly evolving collegiate athletics landscape

Council members will lend expertise across areas including business and finance, athletics administration, fundraising, strategic planning, equity, communications, and leadership development, all while championing Cornell's core academic and institutional values.

Inaugural Big Red Champions Council Members

The founding cohort of the Big Red Champions Council represents a wide range of industries, athletic affiliations, and graduating classes:

• Alex Hanson '87 (Chair)

• Tim Barry '93

• Rich Booth '82

• Jay Carter '72

• Dave Dase '89

• Gary Davis '76

• Dick Emmet '95

• Liz Everett Krisberg '97

• Kraig Kayser '84

• Karin Kukral '82

• Eric Kutcher '97

• Michael J. Levine '93

• Kevin Johnson '88

• Andy Phillips '86

Together, these leaders form the inaugural advisory body dedicated to advancing Cornell Athletics and Physical Education through strategic insight, meaningful investment, and enduring advocacy.
 

A Moment to Celebrate

The launch of the Big Red Champions Council marks an important milestone for Cornell Athletics, one that reinforces the university's belief in the powerful role athletics plays in education, community-building, leadership development, and lifelong engagement.

As Cornell continues to "win together, inspire wellbeing, and love Cornell," the Big Red Champions Council will play a vital role in helping ensure that future generations of student-athletes thrive on the field, in the classroom, and beyond.
 

Alex Hanson '87, Chair, Big Red Champions Council

"I am passionate about the impact of the learning opportunities and growth our student athletes experience, regardless of the sport. These can be the most powerful, life long lessons they will encounter anywhere - at Cornell or elsewhere.The Big Red Champions Council was created to ensure that today's and tomorrow's student‑athletes have access to the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive.  This Council brings together passionate Cornellians who believe deeply in the mission of athletics as a force for learning, leadership, and lifelong connection to the university.
 

Liz Everett Krisberg '97, Inaugural Member, Big Red Champions Council

"Athletics - at all levels - has a unique ability to build community, develop confidence, and create a lasting sense of belonging. The Big Red Champions Council represents an exciting commitment to investing in the full student‑athlete experience, supporting coaches, training staff, and students while strengthening Cornell's tradition of excellence. I'm proud to be part of a group that is helping shape a strong and sustainable future for Big Red Athletics & Physical Education."