In the Capitol lobby, which was lined with CCE banners and tables, lawmakers engaged with interactive displays highlighting CCE-led initiatives such as 4-H Camps, farm-to-school programs, robotics, food systems, and Relatives and Parents programs.
During meetings with their local representatives, CCE’s executive directors shared examples of how CCE programming – which is informed by Cornell research – positively impacts communities in their respective districts. All told, extension programming reaches nearly 1.7 million New York state residents annually.
The executive directors also shared a simple message: With additional funding, they can do more to support New Yorkers with the greatest needs. At the county level, that would mean an increase in the state funding CCE associations receive through NYS County Law 224, which funds the university’s land-grant public engagement mission.
For the past 25 years, the funding – which is shared among each of New York’s 57 counties outside of New York City – has remained level, at $3.9 million.
For 2020, CCE is asking lawmakers to more than double that contribution to $8 million, including $200,000 for Cornell University Cooperative Extension New York City, which currently receives no state funding despite serving all five boroughs.
“With additional funding from the state, CCE will be able better capitalize on its reach in every community,” said CCE Director Chris Watkins. “Priorities for extension are specific to each county, but limited resources can restrict our flexibility to meet current needs and emerging issues.”
