After nearly a century of providing expert instruction in agricultural economics and farm management, the academic unit continued to expand its offerings. This led to a new name—the Department of Applied Economics and Management—that would better reflect the evolving landscape and accommodate future growth.

In 2010, the Department of Applied Economics and Management became its own school, named for Charles H. Dyson, whose family had established a $25 million endowment to support applied economics management (AEM) programming.

As a land-grant institution, Cornell University has influenced not only the agricultural industry across New York state, but also the livelihoods of state residents. Faculty members and friends of the Dyson School have contributed their knowledge, experience, funding, and time to make the school what it is today.

Our Namesake: Charles H. Dyson

Charles H. Dyson (1909-1997) was an entrepreneur, a trusted government advisor, and a philanthropist. He founded the Dyson-Kissner-Moran Corp. and was a pioneer in leveraged buyouts. The Dyson Foundation focuses on supporting nonprofits and residents of New York’s Hudson Valley

The biography George F. Warren: Farm Economist tells the story of the farm management pioneer, international leader, and namesake of Cornell’s Warren Hall.

The book Agricultural Economics at Cornell: A History, 1900-1990 covers, decade by decade, nearly a century of contributions made to research, education, and extension.