A senior extension specialist, Zuefle, is the first NYSIPM employee to be selected to the prestigious LeadNY program, according to NYSIPM director Alejandro Calixto.
“LeadNY has a proud tradition of developing leaders in the food, agriculture and natural resource sectors, and Marion will make a wonderful addition to the incoming class,” Calixto said. “She brings a cache of accomplishments, an infectious passion for science and a genuine optimism to her work with NYSIPM, and we could not be more proud to have her represent our program while expanding her leadership skills.”
In her role with NYSIPM, Zuefle works closely with farmers and growers to identify and combat exotic diseases and invasive species. She oversees the New York Sweet Corn Pheromone Trap Network, has conducted valuable research on the impact of Spotted wing drosophila on tomato crops and has made significant contributions to Cornell AgriTech’s hemp studies. She has also been instrumental in the development of training opportunities for Spanish farm employees.
Through LeadNY, Zuefle will have an opportunity participate in seminars, workshops and field travel experiences in New York State and internationally, that focus on leadership skill development, enhanced self-awareness, civic engagement, expanding knowledge of issues facing the global food system and rural communities and cultivating leadership networks.
Since 1985, more than 500 professionals have participated in LeadNY, with many leveraging their program experience to excel in elected roles at the local, county and state levels, to create economic opportunities in communities and to lead their organizations through challenging times.
