Senator Helming presents Cornell AgriTech with Empire Award

Senator Helming presented Cornell AgriTech with a New York State Senate Empire Award in recognition of its leadership in advancing the agriculture and food industries in New York and contributing to the economic growth and vitality of the community, region and state.

Olga Padilla-Zakour, interim director of Cornell AgriTech, and Cathy Young, executive director of the New York State Center of Excellence for Food and Agriculture, accepted the award for Cornell AgriTech.

Senator Helming, who is also a member of Cornell AgriTech's advisory council, said:

“When it comes to agriculture, food and beverage, there is so much that puts the Finger Lakes and New York State on the map—and that’s largely thanks to the work of Cornell AgriTech. 

Cornell AgriTech is part of the innovation ecosystem that drives the development of new products and markets for farmers, food processors, and beverage manufacturers—and supports the entrepreneurs and start-up companies essential to our economic future. 

From the Center of Excellence to the Food Venture Center to the Tech Farm, by all measures, Cornell AgriTech is a world-class resource we are fortunate to have in our backyard. 

Its work trickles down to our local communities and families—in terms of business and job growth and healthy food on the family dinner table. 

In its 140th anniversary year, and for its extensive contributions to the agriculture, food and beverage industries in our region and state, it is my honor to present Cornell AgriTech with the New York State Senate Empire Award.”