The faculty on the two campuses made scientific and technological advancements which were used in the war effort. The gas mask was developed by Professors Easterbrook and Prager of the City College Chemistry Department and was used for the first time in World War I. In addition Professor Baskerville of City College served as the chairman of the scientific research branch of the National Research Council, and President Mezes in September of 1917 was asked by the Wilson Administration to head a committee to prepare materials to help answer questions which might arise at a Peace Conference. Faculty members, George R. Meehan, Second Lieutenant of Infantry and Joseph A Kennedy, First Class Private were killed  on the battlefields of France, making the ultimate sacrifice.

At Hunter College faculty also responded to the call to serve their country. Professor Henrietta Prentiss became the directory of the Paris International Club for students, conducted by the YMCA. Miss Marguerite E. Jones also went to France, and money was raised to buy several Red Cross ambulances to be sent to the front.