Scott Eskwitt
Industrial and Labor Relations
Tell us about what you're doing with your life
We're living in Bozeman, Montana. I’m handling policy and communications at Wildfire Defense Systems, Inc., protecting our client’s properties from wildfire across twenty-two states. Christine directs sustainability for Ansell Healthcare and is working remotely. We love our life out here in the Gallatin Valley, surrounded by four mountain ranges and passing grazing cattle on the way to my office.
What was your favorite class at Cornell, or the one you found most useful?
My favorite and most useful class was "Quantitative Dispute Resolution", taught by Prof. Walter Isard. Dr. Isard was one of the fathers of the study of regional science and location economics. His personality, character, manner of imparting knowledge, and passion for the subject matter inspired me to apply his theories to most every aspect of my professional career and approach to problem-solving.
What is your favorite memory of your time at Cornell?
Time spent with Eric Kwitel, ILR '84. Eric and I met at Cornell Summer 1979, and remained best friends throughout our time at Cornell and the following years. I last saw him in Tallinn, Estonia. He died only a few weeks later at the end of October 2006. I miss him terribly.
Which Cornell classmates do you keep in touch with?
Lindsay Liotta- Forness, Andy Zakow, Alan Polinsky, Mark Nackman, Chris Knipp, and the boys from Kappa Sigma.
How has your time at Cornell influenced you since you graduated?
I was extraordinarily fortunate to attend Cornell and be surrounded by a unique environment, diverse classmates, and incredible teachers. I learned from all of them. Some positively, some negatively. I have a responsibility to work towards improving every situation in which I find myself, based on the knowledge and experience gained from my time at Cornell and in Ithaca.
What extracurricular activity or hobby from your time at Cornell was most meaningful?
Firefighting. I joined the Ithaca Fire Department soon after Freshman orientation. Back in New Jersey, I remained active, serving as chief for several years. My experience in the fire service has shaped my approach to management and leadership and has been integral to my professional career.
If you could change anything about your Cornell experience, what would it be?
That I had been more mature and able to appreciate the significance of my education and experiences in real time. "Youth is wasted on the young" as it were.
What does being a Cornell alumnus mean to you?
Pride and an obligation to give back.
What are you most looking forward to at Reunion 2024?
Seeing old friends, reconnecting, and re-visiting those physical locations with which I retain strong emotional ties. The Class of 1915 steps "This stairway is erected in memory of Morgan Smiley Baldwin Cornell 1915 who lies where he fell at Boni - France September 29th 1918". The A.D. White bench at the top of Libe slope."To those who shall sit here rejoicing, to those who shall sit here mourning, sympathy and greeting; So have we done in our time." Gets me every time.
