Cornell Cooperative Extension

Cornell University Cooperative Extension - New York City is hiring a director of family and youth development to lead high-impact, research-based programs across all five boroughs. With program offices in the South Bronx and Queens, a Brooklyn presence, and close ties to Cornell's Manhattan site and Ithaca campus, CUCE-NYC operates at the dynamic intersection of university research and community impact. Learn more and apply: https://lnkd.in/gzRtTKnc

Finding local Long Island seafood has never been easier. In April, The Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County (CCE Suffolk) Marine Program, in collaboration with NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets, launched the North Shore Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trail, expanding an initiative that began with the South Shore Long Trail in 2025. The trail app helps residents and visitors discover seafood markets and restaurants across Long Island while supporting local harvesters and strengthening coastal economies. “So much of the seafood that we consume is imported; it doesn’t make sense," said Kristin Gerbino, fisheries specialist with CCE’s Marine Program. "We want to stop that disconnect and get people connected with the seafood that is available here.” Learn more: https://lnkd.in/e9QwYZse

Mallory Hohl is an urban garden specialist with CCE’s Harvest New York team, where she helps communities across New York grow urban agriculture efforts through practical support and Cornell expertise. From supporting Rochester’s Urban Ag Working Group to helping community and home growers access no-cost soil testing, her work focuses on more than growing food. It’s about creating welcoming spaces, beautifying neighborhoods, and helping communities build resilient local food systems. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eDYtv5D3

Interested in shaping marine policy at the federal level? New York Sea Grant is seeking graduate students interested in ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes issues to apply for the 2027 John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship. The yearlong fellowship places students in Washington, D.C., where they work in federal agencies or congressional offices on real-world marine policy, bringing science and fresh perspectives to decision-making while building practical experience and national professional network. Applications are due June 3. Learn more and apply: https://lnkd.in/ePFxWp74

A new mural in downtown Binghamton is helping bring clean energy conversations into the community. Unveiled at Truth Pharm as part of the Southern Tier’s Thriving Futures initiative, the mural reflects CCE’s Smart Energy Choices program’s work to connect residents with clean energy resources and opportunities. That includes helping residents navigate energy-saving programs, explore community solar, and discover clean-energy career pathways. Created by artist Mia Hause, the mural is one of nearly 20 planned across the Southern Tier, using public art to inspire dialogue around clean energy and community resilience. Learn more at: https://lnkd.in/eK7_Eq3q Cornell Cooperative Extension of Steuben County Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schuyler County Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tioga County Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chenango County Cornell Cooperative Extension of Delaware County Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schuyler County Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County

North Country growers face some of New York’s shortest growing seasons, shaped by late frosts and increasingly unpredictable weather that can disrupt production. Elisabeth Hodgdon, vegetable crops specialist with CCE’s Eastern NY Commercial Horticulture Program, is helping farmers adapt through region-specific high tunnel research and hands-on grower support tailored to North Country conditions. Read more at https://lnkd.in/etAcrzuQ

Ann Janson has been part of New York State 4-H for nearly 60 years, starting as a kid in Columbia County and later returning as a volunteer when her children became involved. Over the years, she has served as Horse Bowl Chair and mentored young people in the horse program, helping them build skills and confidence that carry far beyond 4-H. “It’s great to see the light bulbs come on as they remember what they’ve learned,” she says. “When they succeed, they want to do more.” And in many cases, they have, going on to become veterinarians, engineers, business owners and community leaders. For National Volunteer Week, we recognize Ann and the volunteers across New York who give their time and talent to support youth, families and communities through CCE. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eAyhEQ3a

Last fall, Shannon Fitzpatrick and other gardeners at a Brooklyn community garden noticed construction dust settling into their growing beds, raising concerns about what might be in their soil. This spring, through the Community Gardens Soil Testing Program, she and her fellow gardeners received free soil tests to analyze nutrients and contaminants. Offered by CCE’s Harvest New York team, the program helps gardeners plan how to improve their soil, with regional specialists providing guidance and education on next steps. “Since we’re offering individual technical assistance based on their results report, we’re able to offer insight that may not be common knowledge. We can work one-on-one with each grower,” said Mallory Hohl, program coordinator and urban garden specialist. “It feels empowering to know what’s in our soil, what’s getting into our food and to make sure it’s as healthy as it can be — and if not, that we can take steps to improve it,” said Fitzpatrick, who has been gardening there for two years. Understanding what’s in our soil is a step toward healthier communities, on Earth Day and every day. Read more: https://lnkd.in/e4JjBNUd

National Volunteer Week is a chance to take a closer look at the people behind the work. When there wasn’t space in a local 4-H club, Linda Elcsisin, a volunteer with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Jefferson County, started her own. What began with a small group of family and friends has grown into a place where young people learn to sew, build confidence and create something they’re proud to take home. Her Timeless Textiles club is intentionally small, giving each child the attention they need to develop real skills. That impact goes beyond what they make. Club members sew caps for cancer patients, read aloud to a 95-year-old neighbor, collect donations at community events and show up when help is needed — learning what it means to be part of a community along the way. “They come because they’re excited to make something,” she says. “They leave proud.” Read more about Linda's impact: https://lnkd.in/eAyhEQ3a