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Cathy Young leaving state Senate for job at Cornell

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Sen. Catharine Young, who has represented the southern tier in the New York Senate since 2005, is resigning her seat for a job promoting the state's agriculture. Young's pending departure from her current role was confirmed in a news release issued by Cornell University, which is announcing that Young will become director of the New York State Center of Excellence for Food and Agriculture at Cornell AgriTech. She will lead an institution that seeks to grow New York's food, beverage and agricultural economy by connecting businesses to resources and expertise.

Young will begin her new role on March 11 and, in a prepared statement, explains she grew up on a dairy farm and thus knows the challenges faced by those whomake a living in the agriculture industry.

“It was a very challenging decision to leave my service in the New York State Senate because I care so deeply about the people and issues facing my district,” she said. “However, this new role will provide me with more direct opportunities to make progress in one of the industries that is closest to my heart.

“I grew up on a dairy farm,” she said, “and know firsthand some of the challenges that those in the food and agriculture industry face and the opportunities that innovation, technology and business partnerships can bring to the industry. I am thrilled to continue making a difference in this new and enhanced statewide capacity.”

Young, a Republican, became a senator in the 57th District in May 2005, replacing Patricia McGee, who died while in office. Prior to serving in the Senate, Young represented the 149th State Assembly District dating back to January 1999.

Young became part of the Senate minority after Democrats took control of the chamber in the November elections. She lost her bid to become minority leader to Sen. John Flanagan.

The 57th District includes Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Allegany counties, as well as part of Livingston County.

Michael Mroziak is an experienced, award-winning reporter whose career includes work in broadcast and print media. When he joined the WBFO news staff in April 2015, it was a return to both the radio station and to Horizons Plaza.