Shari Romar has joined the School of Integrative Plant Science (SIPS) as a communications specialist to help elevate awareness of the school's longstanding engagement efforts with communities across the state, nationally and globally.
“Shari brings a wealth of experience that will help us communicate how our research on plants, soil and their microbiomes can be used by communities across New York and around the world to help improve lives, strengthen local economies, and protect environmental quality,” says Jenny Kao-Kniffin, associate professor of horticulture and co-chair of SIPS’ Council of Extension Leaders.
In addition to working as a freelance nature writer, photographer and educator, Romar has served as a technical writer for the New York State Integrated Pest Management Program, a new media and marketing manager for the Queens Botanical Garden, and an adjunct professor in ornamental horticulture at Farmingdale State College.
Romar will work closely with SIPS faculty and Cornell Cooperative Extension leaders and educators to develop stories, features, press releases and publications on a wide range of topics that impact both rural and urban areas. She will also serve as editor of the Branching Out newsletter, which delivers timely information to green professionals on integrated pest management for trees and shrubs.
“During her first year, Shari will focus mostly on urban topics, such sustainable landscapes, controlled environment agriculture, gardening and urban agriculture,” adds Kao-Kniffin. “Then she’ll ramp up to the full range of SIPS outreach themes.”
