|
|
|
|
|
New Director of Cornell Ag & Food Tech Park to Address March 18 Ontario County Agriculture Appreciation Banquet
|
Daniel J. Fessenden, Executive Director of the Cornell Ag & Food Tech Park, will address the Ontario County Agriculture Appreciation Celebration on Friday, March 18 in Geneva. Mr. Fessenden, an economic development leader and former New York State Assemblyman, assumed the executive director position for CAFTP in September 2004.
"As we recognize the achievements of our agriculture industry and local leaders at the Agriculture Appreciation Celebration, we are happy and honored that Dan Fessenden will take part in the event," said Norbert Amberg, Chairman of the Ontario County Agriculture Enhancement Board. "The Cornell Ag & Food Tech Park will be a tremendous economic catalyst for the food and agricultural industry in Ontario County and for the whole Finger Lakes region."
The CAFTP enables start-up and established companies to carry out cutting edge research in food, agriculture and bio-based technologies, and will complement existing research and extension programs of the Experiment Station and Cornell University. Construction for Phase I of the 72-acre park, which is located on Pre-Emption Road in Geneva, adjacent to the Experiment Station, is underway. Phase I includes supporting infrastructure, and a 20,000 sq. ft. multi-tenant, flexible technology building.
"I see the park as a catalyst for coupling private-sector investment with the world-class research being conducted at the NYS Agricultural Experiment Station," said Fessenden, a 1987 graduate of Cornell University who has a keen understanding of economic development in upstate New York. "The park provides a tremendous opportunity to leverage this research for the benefit of Cornell, the region, New York State, and the food and agricultural industry."
Fessenden has varied experience in agriculture as a farmer, and in government as a state leader. Prior to joining CAFTP, he was manager of government and community relations for the Carrier Corporation, in Syracuse, NY, a $9 billion global manufacturer. From 1993-99 he served as a member of the New York State Assembly, representing the 126th district. From 1987-88 he was associate director of government relations for the New York Farm Bureau.
The community is invited to hear Dan Fesseden at the Ontario County Agriculture Appreciation Celebration on Friday, March 18, 2005 at Club 86 in Geneva. Starting with a social reception at 6:30 pm, participants can view displays about agricultural organizations important to the $250 million industry and meet local producers, educators, researchers and business leaders. The program includes recognition of outstanding industry professionals for their contributions in environmental stewardship, innovation and leadership.
Cornell Cooperative Extension, Ontario County Farm Bureau and Ontario County Agriculture Enhancement Board are sponsoring the event. For more information and reservations contact Cornell Cooperative Extension at 585-394-3977 x 38 or by email at nea8@cornell.edu or visit our website at www.cce.cornell.edu/ontario.
For more background information and a photo of Daniel Fessenden visit:
www.nysaes.cornell.edu/pubs/press/2004/040820fessenden.html
DanielFessenden will be available to the media following the presentation
"Cornell University Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities."
|
|
|
Click On Banner For More Information
|
