Chautauqua County 4-H member Evie Woodis was accepted into the New York State Animal and Agricultural Leadership Program.

Chautauqua County 4-H teen Evie Woodis was one of 28 students from across New York and New England to be accepted into the state Animal and Agricultural Leadership Program through Cornell University.

Youth will be introduced to all areas of animal science, gaining insights into the various opportunities within each species and how these can be applied beyond their area of interest.

Over the course of the year, students will visit four colleges and universities across New York. Their first visit, to Cornell University in Ithaca, gave students an opportunity to visit the ruminant center and see current research into livestock, as well as participate in low ropes course activities to help them learn leadership and team building skills.

Students will also visit SUNY Cobleskill, Alfred State, and Morrisville State College, each offering experiences in agriculture and animal science. From lectures and labs to interactions with professors and current students, participants will gain insight into opportunities in the animal agriculture industry.

“I am excited to see the launch of this program,” said Dr. Tom Overton, chair of the Animal Science Department at Cornell. “This program is a critical step in empowering youth to pursue careers in agriculture, one of New York’s most vital industries. By providing access to these experiences, we are equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and connections they need to succeed.”

The state Animal and Agricultural Leadership Program was made possible by the New York Farm Bureau and the state 4-H Foundation.