Maire Ullrich Named Executive Director of Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County

Maire Ullrich stepped into the executive director role at Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County on Monday, March 23, bringing more than 30 years of agricultural expertise to a position vacated by Lucy Joyce, who spent 21 of her 33 years with CCE leading the Orange County operation.

Ullrich had served as Agriculture Program Leader at CCE Orange County for the past 14 years, a tenure marked by community outreach, regional vegetable work, and a weekly radio presence on WTBQ through her show "Farm Talk." She holds a B.S. in Agriculture from Cornell University and an MBA in Management from SUNY New Paltz.

"I am honored and energized to take on the position of Executive Director," Ullrich said. "This organization means so much to me, and I am excited to help lead the next chapter, strengthening partnerships, growing opportunities for residents, and ensuring our programs continue to make a real difference."

In the role, Ullrich will oversee strategic planning, program development, community partnerships, and organizational growth across CCE Orange County's extensive portfolio, which spans agriculture, 4-H youth programs, gleaning, energy, food, and community resilience initiatives, among others.

Joyce, who retires after her long run with the organization, began her CCE career in Broome County before spending two decades building out programs in Orange County. She played a central role in developing the Education Center and 4-H Park in Otisville.

"It has been an honor and privilege to serve Orange County through this distinguished Cooperative Extension System with its powerful mission, excellent staff and dedicated volunteers resulting in impactful educational programs," Joyce said. She added that she is "excited for the future, for the continued excellence of CCE programs and growth of the Education Center and 4-H Park under the leadership of my friend and colleague, Maire Ullrich."

CCE Orange County is based at 18 Seward Avenue, Suite 300, in Middletown. Ullrich can be reached at (845) 344-1234, Ext. 256, or at mru2@cornell.edu.