Sofia Russo

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County has hired Sofia Russo as its agriculture program coordinator.

Russo brings experience in sustainable agriculture, education and community outreach to support and enhance agricultural initiatives in Chautauqua County. She can be reached by calling 716-664-9502, ext. 203, or emailing ssr236@cornell.edu.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Chautauqua has been undergoing an internal capacity study which has led to growth and restructuring. The new position will increase capacity and efficiency within the organization while providing support and guidance to the county’s agricultural community.

Russo recently earned her bachelor’s degree in Animal Behavior, Ecology, and Conservation from Canisius University. Since 2023, she has worked with Cornell Cooperative Extension in various roles, including as a farm technician with Cornell Vegetable Program and as an intern with the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program, where she supported its spotted lanternfly monitoring efforts with the state Department of Agriculture and Markets. She also worked with the Massachusetts Avenue Project in Buffalo as an intern where she gained experience in urban agriculture, youth education, and value-added product development.

“We are so excited to have Sofia’s diverse experiences, passion for agriculture and education join our growing team,” said Katelyn Walley-Stoll, CCE Chautauqua agriculture team leader. “Her skills and dedication will help us to continue to grow our program at CCE Chautauqua to continue to meet the needs of our community.”

Russo will coordinate agricultural programming in Chautauqua County, working with a team to provide high quality, research-based resources to gardeners, homesteaders, farmers, agribusinesses, agricultural stakeholders, and everyone in between.