History

The Cooperative Extension system today is a unique achievement in American education. Many countries have tried to copy it, but it is yet to be duplicated. It is an agency for change and for problem-solving, a catalyst for individual and group action with a history of over 90 years of public education and service. Extension brings the reward of higher education into the lives of all segments of our communities (Wayne D. Rasmussen, Taking the University to the People, 1989).

We have been told that we live in an age of information, a knowledge age. There is more information available to us on a daily basis than we can probably ever digest in a lifetime. And yet, sometimes the quality and quantity of that information can be suspect. How can we know for certain which web sites, television programs, and printed publications are giving us the kind of credible information we need to make healthy, productive, and life-long impacts for ourselves, our families, and our communities? 

The Cooperative Extension system is one of the few trusted sources for such information. The programs offered through CCE are based on unbiased research. The full credibility of Cornell University, as well as other land-grant institutions and partners throughout the United States, is brought to every rural and urban community in New York State. And it’s not just about agriculture and home economics anymore.

Cooperative Extension delivers programming in youth development, life skills, nutrition and health, agricultural sustainability, environmental education, job skills, and community development. Sometimes it’s one-on-one. Other times it’s in a workshop, group, or meeting. It can be in a classroom, in a field, or on the phone. It’s an educator or program assistant, a volunteer or a student intern. Sometimes it’s via satellite or on the web. It really doesn’t matter, because it’s all about broadening knowledge. 

Cooperative Extension is the door to knowledge in your neighborhood. It has stood the test of time for over 100 years. And even though times change, the need for knowledge never does.

Mini-Museum

Stop in the office at the Extension Education Center on 64 Ferndale-Loomis Road in Liberty to check out our "mini-museum" case with historic documents, newsletters, books, items, and more- and flip through photos from over the years, as far back as 1914. You may even spot an old friend, neighbor, or relative in the archives!

Last updated June 28, 2021