Spectrum News
State Senator Cathy Young, R-Olean, is stepping down from the Legislature next month.
In a press release, Cornell University announced she has been named director of the New York State Center for Food and Agriculture. Her start date is March 11.
“It was a very challenging decision to leave my service in the New York State Senate because I care so deeply about the people and issues facing my district,” Young said. “However, this new role will provide me with more direct opportunities to make progress in one of the industries that is closest to my heart.”
The Republican said she grew up on a dairy farm and knows firsthand the challenges the food and agriculture industry faces.
“I am thrilled to continue making a difference in this new and enhanced statewide capacity,” Young said.
She has been a member of the state Senate since 2005. The 57th district covers Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua and portions of Livingston County.
Young was the first woman to serve as the chair of the influential Senate Finance Committee. She also served in the Assembly for six years and the Cattaraugus County Legislature prior to that.
“Agriculture and food manufacturing are two of upstate New York’s largest job creators, and Catharine Young has significant experience integrating farm business with food processors and championing initiatives that support the food and farming sector to push our region’s economy forward,” Jan Nyrop, associate dean and Goichman Family Director of Cornell AgriTech, said. “We are very fortunate to have someone of Sen. Young’s caliber to step into this role with a strong vision, statewide network and proven track record of growing businesses.”
Young also previously served as chair of the state Senate Agricultural Committee. However, she was conspicuously absent from GOP leadership this session.
