Local 4-H'er Goes to Leadership Program

JAMESTOWN, NEW YORK (December 16, 2025) Chautauqua County 4-H teen Evie Woodis was one of twenty-eight students from across New York and New England to be accepted into the NYS 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, NY, 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 immersive 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 NYS Animal and Agricultural Leadership Program was made possible by the New York Farm Bureau and the NYS 4-H Foundation

The motto for 4-H is make the best better. 4-H is one of many programs offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County (CCE-Chautauqua). 4-H offers programs in local schools, clubs, and through animal projects.

CCE-Chautauqua is a subordinate governmental agency with an educational mission that operates under a form of organization and administration approved by Cornell University as agent for the State of New York. It is tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The association is part of the national cooperative extension system, an educational partnership between County, State, and Federal governments. As New York’s land grant university, Cornell administers the system in this state. Each Cornell Cooperative Extension association is an independent employer that is governed by an elected Board of Directors with general oversight from Cornell. All associations work to meet the needs of the counties in which they are located as well as state and national goals. For more information, call 716-664-9502 or visit our website at www.cce.cornell.edu/chautauqua.

Last updated December 16, 2025