The Alumni Collection
When Cornell University closed its record $6.36 billion capital campaign, it wanted a better way to serve its alumni. Harris Made was invited to curate an exclusive, made-to-order Alumni Collection of bags and accessories.
The collection uses exquisite fabrics, hardware forged for royalty and the most beautiful English vegetable-tanned leather. It is a bespoke collection with 230 years of provenance behind it, made to reflect Cornell's own history and heritage. The range covers messenger bags, totes, dopp kits, iPad sleeves, card holders, luggage tags and key rings, in brown and grey.
A Saxony wool scarf with the Presidential seal
Saxony wool scarves are a centuries-old tradition, first introduced to students at Oxford and Cambridge as a mark of academic excellence, scholarly pride and global community. This design celebrates Cornell's colors and its embroidered Presidential seal. The wool is woven on the same looms that make the scarlet cloth for the Guards' uniforms at Buckingham Palace.
A medallion badge in gold and silver wire
The badge is handmade with the same gold and silver gilt metal wire thread used for the Guards' uniforms at Buckingham Palace. A magnetic, felt-covered back makes it easy to put on and take off, and when it is not being worn it makes a useful paperweight.
"Our Harris Made Alumni Collection is gorgeous! We have nothing but praise. I highly recommend working with Harris Made."
James Best, General Merchandise Manager, The Cornell Store, Cornell University
At a glance
- Client: Cornell University
- Pieces: Alumni Collection bags and accessories, Saxony wool scarf, medallion badge
- Materials: English vegetable-tanned leather, Saxony wool, gold and silver gilt wire
- Made in: Britain
How we work
Every Harris Made commission follows the same 3 steps: a conversation with Emma, our designer and co-founder, about what makes your institution special; samples for your approval before production; and a final inspection by Emma before each gift is wrapped in a client-branded presentation box. See our process, or explore our university recognition gifts.
