Cornell Cooperative Extension of Steuben County held its annual meeting at The Y at Watson Woods, bringing together more than 100 community members, volunteers, and local officials to review the organization’s work over the past year.
The event, led by Executive Director Tess McKinley, highlighted programs and partnerships that support agriculture, youth development, and community education in Steuben County.
Among the year’s accomplishments were the expansion of the Veggie Van Program to improve access to fresh, local produce; the continuation of Farm Trail Day, which connected residents with 15 area farms; and the formation of three new 4-H clubs, bringing total enrollment in the program to more than 240 youth. The Agriculture in the Classroom program also marked another year of providing hands-on lessons about food and farming.
CCE Steuben also presented its annual awards recognizing contributions from local individuals and organizations. This year’s honorees included:
- Outstanding 4-H Youth: Alexis Hurd
- Friend of Extension: Steuben County Office for the Aging
- Outstanding Producer: Squires Farms
- Outstanding Volunteers: Jackie Knoll and Beth Walter Honadle
- Agribusiness of the Year: Empire Livestock
The evening concluded with a dinner, dessert auction to support CCE programs, and a trivia game.
McKinley said the event reflected the strong sense of collaboration in Steuben County, adding that the organization’s work depends on the continued support of its volunteers and community partners.
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