Dr. Lori Leonard

Professor

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Biography

Lori Leonard is a Professor and the inaugural chair of the Department of Global Development at Cornell University. Her current research focuses on the social and environmental implications of consumption, disposability, and the global circulation of used secondhand goods. She has been involved in several research projects, including recycling food waste in upstate New York and exploring the repair and recycling of used cars in West Central Africa. In addition, she conducts long-term studies on extractive industries, notably analyzing a pipeline project in Chad as a supposed model for oil-led development and the country's energy transitions. Leonard has been recognized for her scholarly work, receiving support from numerous organizations, including the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, and various private foundations. As a member of multiple graduate fields at Cornell, her research intersects gender and development issues. Her teaching includes innovative courses that explore gender, global change, and qualitative research methods, fostering critical discussions around these themes. Leonard has also held esteemed fellowships and received multiple awards for her contributions to academia.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

2001-01-01 — Present

Cornell University • Ithaca, NY

Lori Leonard has served as a Professor in the Department of Global Development at Cornell University, focusing on research and teaching related to gender and global development.

Senior Associate Dean

2025-01-01 — Present

Cornell University • Ithaca, NY

Lori Leonard will assume the role of Senior Associate Dean, emphasizing academic leadership and administrative responsibilities.

Awards

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Outstanding Faculty Award

2023-01-01
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Faculty Fellowship

2019-01-01
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Academic Writing Residency

2016-01-01
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CALS Innovative Teacher Award

2016-01-01
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Residential Fellowship

2010-01-01
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Canada Research Chair

2009-01-01
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Margaret Bright Award for Excellence in Teaching

2008-01-01
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Advising, Mentoring, Teaching Award (AMTRA)

2007-01-01
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Faculty Innovation Award

2003-01-01
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New Century Scholars Award

2001-01-01

Requirements for Cornell University

Master Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Listening
Required:15
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:22
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Architecture or related field
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Portfolio (SlideRoom)
  • Academic Statement of Purpose
  • Personal Statement
  • Transcripts
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

Department of Architecture