Join Our Board

Cornell Cooperative Extension Yates County Seeks Applications for Board of Directors

Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) is a dynamic education system that extends Cornell University’s land-grant programs to citizens across New York State. With a presence in every county and New York City, CCE puts research into practice by providing high-value educational programs and university-backed resources that help solve real-life problems, transforming and improving New York families, farms, businesses, and communities.

Description of Position:

Serve as one of 10 voting Directors on the Board, responsible for setting organizational direction, ensuring necessary resources, and providing oversight to ensure the overall health of the Association.

Responsibilities:

• Support and maintain the Association in cooperation with CCE at Cornell University
• Help secure the necessary resources to conduct, manage, and administer the Association’s program
• Supervise and evaluate the Executive Director on an annual basis

Collaboration: The Board works closely together to administer the activities of the Association. They also interact and collaborate with staff, volunteers, the Legislature, and community members at events and programs.

Expected Results: To help secure the necessary resources to operate the Association effectively; to support and maintain the Association per the Bylaws and Memorandums of Agreement with Cornell and Yates County; and to evaluate the Executive Director annually.

Reporting: Provide input at board meetings on issues including program development, staffing, finances, fundraising, and legislative and administrative management. Provide feedback on the annual Board evaluation survey.

Time Commitment: Three-year term, not to exceed two consecutive terms. Attend regular monthly Board meetings (4th Wednesday) and infrequent special meetings (i.e., Annual Meetings, Legislative Lunch/Tour, Budget Public Hearings). Some committee work depends on the interest of Board members.

Qualifications: Must be a Yates County resident at least 18 years of age. Knowledge of Yates County and local community needs. Knowledge, interest, and/or experience in one or more areas of CCE programming (agriculture, youth development, natural resources, nutrition, financial management, community development). Expertise or experience in one or more of the following (preferably related to nonprofit organizations): program development/evaluation, strategic planning, accounting, business management, volunteer management, fundraising, promotion, marketing, risk management, politics, or nonprofit law.

Benefits:

• Helping to lead CCE of Yates to build a strong and vibrant Yates County
• Learn more about Yates County agriculture, youth development, water quality, financial management, nutrition, and how CCE programs positively impact these areas.
• Learn new skills in areas such as program management/evaluation, strategic planning, fundraising, marketing,
• Meet new and interesting people in Yates County and beyond who are interested in making a positive difference in our communities.
• Enjoy great food, entertainment, and company at several CCE events during the year!

Last updated May 9, 2025