CCE Program Work Teams

4-H Food Systems

The 4-H Food Systems Program Work Team is a collaborative workspace that addresses food systems holistically in terms of health, environmental, social, and economic aspects to help 4-H Educators engage youth in activities and conversations surrounding our food system. The purpose is for youth to recognize connections within the bigger picture, analyze the consequences of the food system, and engage in social issues, which will lead to an understanding of sustainability while becoming more responsible consumers and citizens. 

Co-Chair(s): mc2794 [at] cornell.edu (Mingla Charoenmuang), %20sej57 [at] cornell.edu (Sara Jablonski)

4-H Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math

Recent Activity: 4-H STEM educator professional development events, sponsored activities for 4-H youth, 4-H STEM/New York State Library Summer Reading Program collaboration, National 4-H STEM Challenge kits and training

Co-Chair(s): kmf83 [at] cornell.edu (Kandis Freer), ask37 [at] cornell.edu (Alexa Maille), pennell [at] cnf.cornell.edu (Tom Pennell), %20zap9 [at] cornell.edu (Zoe Ponterio)

• 4-H Science, Technology, Engineering and Math

Civic Engagement

Recent Activity: The program work team encourages participants to actively listen in their respective communities and to tie what they see to national and global issues. A consensus model is used to determine the issues addressed each planning year. The program work team is currently working on two scholarship pipelines for 4-H members (who will enter college and or a career) dedicated to youth voice and sustainable food systems to honor the late Dr. June Mead, and Dr. Philson A.A. Warner, respectively.

Co-Chair(s): jws62 [at] cornell.edu (Jamila Simon), aer279 [at] cornell.edu (Andrew Ruiz)

NYS 4-H Shooting Sports

The 4-H Youth Shooting Sports program promotes safety, leadership, and lifelong engagement. Active in 44 counties and reaching over 23,000 youth with 430 certified volunteers, this PWT supports volunteer development, statewide coordination, regional trainings, and team preparation for state and national events to ensure participants are well-prepared and connected. 

Co-Chair(s): %20jat29 [at] cornell.edu (Jim Tavares), %20kgt2 [at] cornell.edu (Keith Tidbal)l
 

Parenting Education

The purpose of the Parenting Education Program Work Team (PWT) is to foster communication among Cornell Cooperative Extension parenting educators as well as provide support and resources to educators throughout New York State. 

Recent Activity: Host a training for PWT members on how to incorporate the two-generational (2Gen) approach to supporting parents and children

Co-Chair(s): jc2933 [at] cornell.edu (Julia Chapman), ams69 [at] cornell.edu (Anna Steinkraus)

• Parenting Education

Strengthening 4-H Youth Adult Communication Skills

The group collaborates with youth and families to enhance communication skills, strategies, and methods. The PWT evaluates and builds on the 4-H Communication curriculum, manages the 4-H Communication Institute, and strengthens its partnership with the CU Communication department. 

Co-Chair(s): kmg286 [at] cornell.edu (Kristina Gabalski), nal46 [at] cornell.edu (Neil Lewis), jws62 [at] cornell.edu (Jamila Simon)

Risk and Thriving in Adolescence

The Program Work Team Risk and Thriving in Adolescence seeks to identify and develop resources to support and build the capacity of youth work professionals in 4-H and other community agencies working with young people. The PWT has developed several educational toolkits and training materials focused on adolescent development, positive youth development, social and emotional learning, and creating inviting program environments for youth.

Co-Chair(s): rrw33 [at] cornell.edu (Rachel Williams), haw48 [at] cornell.edu (Heather Wynkoop Beach)

Youth, Nature & the Outdoor Environment (YNOE)

The YNOE helps to promote and enhance the needs of 4-H Natural Resources in identifying Cornell and land-grant university curriculum, outreach, and research efforts that can be applied to everyday environmental education programs.  YNOE conducts several teleconferences and in-person PD meetings to help identify issues.  The program offers professional development opportunities, project/resource sharing sessions, and also events for youth to learn in.  

Co-Chair(s):  %20kal64 [at] cornell.edu (Katherine Leo), rb682 [at] cornell.edu (Rachel Bortin), Mel Sheffield, kgt2 [at] cornell.edu (Keith Tidball)

Agriculture and Climate Change

The Agriculture and Climate Change PWT has the goal of connecting CCE educators, Cornell staff, and external stakeholders to collaborate on opportunities for advancing climate change mitigation, adaptation, and resiliency across agricultural, forested, and managed lands in New York State.

Co-Chair(s): el684 [at] cornell.edu (Emily Lindback), kao32 [at] cornell.edu (Kitty O'Neil), ss2655 [at] cornell.edu (Savanna Shelnutt)

Agritourism

This group aims to develop a monthly agritourism workshop series and educational materials for farmers and CCE staff. They collaborate with tourism agencies, Taste NY, and Empire State Development to promote agritourism in NY. 

Co-Chair(s): lw257 [at] cornell.edu (Laura Biasillo), vlg4 [at] cornell.edu (Vicki Giarratano), jh954 [at] cornell.edu (Jarmila Haseler), lep67 [at] cornell.edu (Lindsey Pashow), %20mru2 [at] cornell.edu (Maire Ullrich)

Aquaculture Development

This group works to support and unify the statewide aquaculture industry. Comprised of industry, extension, regulators, and researchers, the team discusses industry issues and needs and develops ways to address them.

Co-Chair(s): bu25 [at] cornell.edu (Barry Udelson), Eugene Won

• Aquaculture Development in NY

Cut Flowers

The cut flower industry has taken off over the last couple of years and limited educational opportunities have been available for growers. The intent of this PWT is to develop educational programming and identify areas of research that will support existing and potential NYS cut flower growers. This PWT will address production and marketing challenges and enhance our cut flower growers' ability to provide NYS cut flowers to consumers in our state.

Co-Chair(s): eml38 [at] cornell.edu (Elizabeth Lamb), lep67 [at] cornell.edu (Lindsey Pashow), jy578 [at] cornell.edu (Jingjing Yin)

• Cut Flower Industry

Farm to School

The Farm to School PWT plans to create better cohesion of farm to school programming across NYS for more efficient/effective farm to school program delivery. As part of a PWT, farm to school coordinators can greatly augment their efforts through resource sharing, thus strengthening the overall farm to school program in NYS.

Co-Chair(s): cbt32 [at] cornell.edu (Cheryl Bilinski), Becky O'Connor, mmt65 [at] cornell.edu (Moria Tidball)

• New York State Farm to School

Fruit

To serve as a forum for Cornell faculty and technical staff, CCE Educators and Specialists, and industry representatives and consultants, to confer on matters related to the New York tree fruit and berry industry, including production matters, business management, pest management, and other issues related to NY's fruit industry.

Co-Chair(s): JFWE [at] aol.com (Jim Eve), jpl275 [at] cornell.edu (Jason Londo), aew232 [at] cornell.edu (Anna Wallis), jev67 [at] cornell.edu (Janet van Zoeren)

• Fruit

Greenhouse Horticulture

The Greenhouse Horticulture PWT provides Cornell extension programming that addresses critical issues to producers of greenhouse bedding plants, flower crops, and greenhouse vegetable crops across New York. There are 615 wholesale floriculture producers in NYS producing $171 million a year in wholesale value. These operations support more than 7,000 employees. 

Co-Chair(s): nsm47 [at] cornell.edu (Neil Mattson),jy578 [at] cornell.edu ( Jingjing Yin)

• Greenhouse Horticulture

Hard Cider

Support Cornell related outreach efforts related to hard cider across the entire supply chain from apple nurseries to orchards to cider producers to marketing.

Co-Chair(s): mrb254 [at] cornell.edu (Mike Basedow), cjg9 [at] cornell.edu (Chris Gerling), cjk37 [at] cornell.edu (Craig Kahlke), lep67 [at] cornell.edu (Lindsay Pashow), gmp32 [at] cornell.edu (Gregory Peck), scott [at] scottramsey.net (Scott Ramsey)

• Hard Cider Web Site

Integrated Field Crop, Soil, and Pest Management

To assess the needs of stakeholders, prioritize opportunities, and to promote and facilitate applied research and extension programs on integrated field crop, soil, and pest management that increases the productivity and profitability of New York agriculture and related industries while protecting the environment for the benefit of all citizens of New York.

Recent Research & Outreach: statewide planning and applied research priorities and sponsored activities

Co-Chair(s): vk364 [at] cornell.edu (Vipan Kumar), ll928 [at] cornell.edu (Louis Longchamps)

• Integrated Field Crop, Soil, and Pest Management

Integrated Nutrient Management

This PWT consists of Cornell faculty and staff and Cornell Cooperative Extension Educators, further advised by a statewide external advisory committee that includes representatives of state agencies (NRCS, NYSDEC, NYSDAM), as well as Farm Bureau, NEDPA, SWCDs, consulting firms, industry representatives, and farmers. The goal is to partner in the development of effective and practical solutions for enhanced agriculture and environmental management. 

Co-Chair(s): drd4 [at] cornell.edu (Dale Dewing), qmk2 [at] cornell.edu (Quirine Ketterings)

• Integrated Nutrient Management

Integrated Pest Management

The need for pest management is universal, as are its risks. We help address pest management needs on the farm, at work or in schools, in homes, or in the community. Research, demonstrations, education, and outreach are part of a comprehensive plan to make IPM the safe, effective pest management solution for all New Yorkers. We look for solutions that help protect the health,  economic well-being, and environment of New York State.

Co-Chair(s): aac273 [at] cornell.edu (Alejandro Calixto), eml38 [at] cornell.edu (Elizabeth Lamb)

• Integrated Pest Management

Livestock

The purpose is to develop collaborations, share resources, and support the work of livestock educators across the state. We are currently in the team development phase. 

Co-Chair(s): lao3 [at] cornell.edu (Lynn Bliven), nig3 [at] cornell.edu (Nancy Glazier), aej48 [at] cornell.edu (Abigail Jantzi Birchenough), klw24 [at] cornell.edu (Kenneth Wise)

Organics Management and Recycling

The Organics Management and Recycling PWT provides a mechanism through which faculty and extension educators connect with stakeholders in identifying issues, studying needs, creating education materials, and designing learning experiences that address solid waste issues and needs.

Co-Chair(s): jb29 [at] cornell.edu (Jean Bonhotal)

• Managing Wastes: Composting and Land Application

Organic Production and Marketing

To support organic producers in New York by developing and strengthening relationships among Cornell researchers, students, and extension staff and stakeholders including producers, consultants, input suppliers, and NGOs.

Co-Chair(s): cls263 [at] cornell.edu (Crystal Courtens), bai1 [at] cornell.edu (Betsy Leonard), gmp32 [at] cornell.edu (Greg Peck); mrr232 [at] cornell.edu (Matthew Ryan), ajs32 [at] cornell.edu (Abby Seaman) 

• Organic Production and Marketing

Regional & Local Food Systems

The Regional & Local Food Systems PWT focuses on food systems work occurring across the state. Stakeholders include Cornell Cooperative Extension, Cornell University, NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets, and other non-profits such as GrowNYC, CADE, and others.

Co-Chair(s): lw257 [at] cornell.edu (Laura Biasillo), vlg4 [at] cornell.edu (Vicki Giarratano), rgh26 [at] cornell.edu (Robert Hadad)

Silvopasture

The Silvopasture PWT promotes the integration of trees, forage, and livestock as a sustainable land management practice in New York. Its work bridges research, education, and on-farm application to make silvopasture a practical and profitable option for farmers and land stewards. 

Co-Chair(s): bjc226 [at] cornell.edu (Brett Chedzoy), ejf5 [at] cornell.edu (Erica Frenay)

Small Farms

The Cornell Small Farms Program Work Team envisions a future where diverse and vibrant urban and rural farms build human capacity, revitalize communities, supply regional food systems, and foster ecological resilience in a changing world. We do this by helping farmers get expert assistance to facilitate all phases of small farm business development, from initial growth to optimization to maturity.

Co-Chair(s):  ar47 [at] cornell.edu (Anusuya Rangarajan), vws7 [at] cornell.edu (Violet Stone), cls263 [at] cornell.edu (Crystal Stewart)

• Small Farms

Soil Health

The Soil Health PWT seeks to better understand soil health systems to support a more sustainable and economically productive industry statewide. 

Co-Chair(s): %20da352 [at] cornell.edu (Deborah Aller), jpa28 [at] cornell.edu (Joseph Amsili)

Urban Agriculture 

The Urban Agriculture Program Work Team was established in 2021 to:

• Build connections by identifying existing meeting structures and familiarizing members with other extension associates working in this field.
• Offer professional development including tours of other UA projects across the State, bringing in industry and diversity, equity, and inclusion speakers
• Conduct a statewide needs assessment with growers and other stakeholders.

Co-Chair(s): Sam Anderson, Yolanda Gonzalez, kg578 [at] cornell.edu (Karen Guzman), mdh286 [at] cornell.edu (Mallory Hohl), kpk59 [at] cornell.edu (Kyle Karnuta), lbk75 [at] cornell.edu (Lori Koenick)

• Urban Agriculture

Vegetable Crops

Recent Outreach: offset staff travel costs for a professional development tour of farms and research in the Riverhead, Long Island, NY area in September of 2018

Co-Chair(s): emb273 [at] cornell.edu (Elizabeth Buck), mel296 [at] cornell.edu (Margie Lund), ms3573 [at] cornell.edu (Maryellen Sheehan) 

• Vegetable Crops

Viticulture and Enology

The Viticulture and Enology (VIEN) Program Work Team exists to support the profitable production of grapes, wine, and grape products in New York State.

The group is diverse, encompassing 20 Cornell faculty research and extension programs, 4 associated USDA-ARS research scientists, and 10 Extension Educators representing four regional grape programs.  Industry input is channeled through program advisory committees for the respective extension programs.

Co-Chair(s): cjg9 [at] cornell.edu (Christopher Gerling), jjr268 [at] cornell.edu (Jennifer Phillips Russo)

• Viticulture and Enology

Weed Management 

The Weed Management PWT will review progress and set new priorities based on shifting weed species and evolving technology. We'll map our expertise to identify and address gaps. Recognized priorities will help us apply for external grants. We'll also apply for PWT funding to cover travel to the Northeast Weed Science Society (NEWSS) meeting, which will keep us updated on advances and connect us with weed management efforts in other states.

Co-Chair(s): Bryan Brown, Janet van Zoeren

All-Hazard Preparedness & Response Education Program

• Safeguarding agriculture in the event of weather, biological or chemical incidents.
• Prepare citizens for personal wellness and resilience in the face of increasing frequency, intensity, and severity of weather events.
• Provide evidence-based resources to assist communities with all-hazard preparedness and response.

Co-Chair(s): kgt2 [at] cornell.edu (Keith Tidball)

• All-Hazard Preparedness & Response Education Program

Community and Family Economics (CAFE)

CAFE engages Cornell faculty and CCE educators to investigate social and economic processes and then to develop appropriate methods for meeting community- wide challenges. Their goal is to support communities and individuals during the present period of social and economic change. In doing so we incorporate cutting-edge programs that create a foundation for community cooperation and development.

Co-Chair(s): tah4 [at] cornell.edu (Thomas Hirschl), Jackie Spencer, Julika Von Stackelburg

Community and Public Health

The Community and Public Health PWT aims to build capacity at the local level related to improving health outcomes and addressing health disparities.

Co-Chair(s): ath66 [at] cornell.edu (Adam Hughes), chj7 [at] cornell.edu (Chris Kai-Jones), ljp9 [at] cornell.edu (Lara Parrilla)

Sustainable Landscapes - Horticulture

Coordinate the Cornell Cooperative Extension's county network of commercial and community horticulture educators and Master Gardener Volunteers to connect with New York State green Industry professionals, 7 million gardening households, and children and youth-serving agencies to build economic vitality and advance environmental and scientific literacy while promoting human well-being and opportunities for successful gardening experiences.

Co-Chair(s): alm443 [at] cornell.edu (Ashley Miller Helmholdt), Taylor Hoose, has34 [at] cornell.edu (Hannah Shayler)

Agroforestry in NYS

The PWT would elevate the status of agroforestry and legitimize its application in New York by identifying current practices and creating resources to expand them.

CCE staff across the state are already engaged in this work but it is often extra-curricular. This PWT will identify funding and support to enable more dedicated staff time to agroforestry either through campus of by working collectively to identify and apply for grants.

Co-Chair(s): gs695 [at] cornell.edu (Graham Savio), tet35 [at] cornell.edu (Tracey Testo), czy2 [at] cornell.edu (Connor Youngerman) 

Climate Change and Communities

The Climate Change & Communities PWT was formed in 2010 and includes Cornell faculty, staff, and Extension educators from around New York State. The PWT provides a mechanism through which faculty and Extension educators connect with stakeholders to identify the needs surrounding climate change impacts and opportunities, develop educational materials and decision tools, and provide training opportunities and engagement around climate change mitigation and adaptation.

Co-Chair(s): kgw43 [at] cornell.edu (Kayla Genevieve Walsh), ksp77 [at] cornell.edu (Khila Pecoraro)

Community and Energy

Educate regarding local and community roles and choices in energy consumption, conservation, production, and distribution in NYS.

Co-Chair(s): dlk2 [at] cornell.edu (David Kay), gm52 [at] cornell.edu (Guillermo Metz)

Community-Based Biodiversity and Habitat Conservation

This group is dedicated to preserving current biodiversity and promoting local habitat conservation.

Co-Chair(s): kls20 [at] cornell.edu (Kristi Sullivan)

Invasive Species

Exchange information about invasive species programs and grants; build connections between CCE county associations and campus faculty.

Recent Activity: hosted an on-campus meeting between educators and Cornell faculty

Co-Chair(s): sin2 [at] cornell.edu (Sharon Bachman), cam369 [at] cornell.edu (Caroline Marschner)

• Invasive Species

Natural Resources

The CCE Natural Resources PWT aims to identify successful outcomes and enhance collaboration by assessing assets, surveying stakeholder needs, and developing resources. Plans include fostering communication via a listserv and evaluating programs through membership growth, regular meetings, and improved statewide resource sharing. The team seeks to integrate research and extension by promoting collaboration, updating materials, and regular meetings.

Co-Chair(s): kgt2 [at] cornell.edu (Keith Tidball), kgt2 [at] cornell.edu (John Bowe), mls266 [at] cornell.edu (Michelle Podolec)

Food-Based Gardening

The Food-Based Gardening PWT connects CCE educators and partners to strengthen food security through gardening education. Meeting six times yearly, the group coordinates programs such as the Biennial Resilient Gardens Conference, Seed to Supper, and the Urban Agriculture Module for MGV training. Together, members expand access to food-based gardening, support community partnerships, and promote resilient, inclusive, and sustainable gardening across New York State. 

Co-Chair(s): alm443 [at] cornell.edu (Ashley Miller Helmholdt), %20mje55 [at] cornell.edu (Makela Elvy), sin2 [at] cornell.edu (Sharon Bachman)

Healthy Living for Youth and Families

Recent Activity: funds to support capacity building and program integration of mindfulness activities in support of youth and adult mental health.

Co-Chair(s): mc2794 [at] cornell.edu (Mingla Charoemuang), sds293 [at] cornell.edu (Stephen Soltish)

Market Nutrition Program Outreach

Supports the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP). Members help develop plans and resources to address program needs.

Co-Chair(s): abg229 [at] cornell.edu (Alisha Gaines)