CALS, SUNY Broome agree to food science transfer program

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences announced March 8 an agreement with SUNY Broome Community College that enhances opportunities for students to complete a degree in Cornell’s Department of Food Science.

The agreement formalizes cooperation between Cornell and SUNY Broome to prepare qualified students for transfer into CALS while on track to earn a bachelor's degree with a focus in either food science or food operations and management. Known as a 2+2 program, the agreement will allow students to complete the first two years of their bachelor’s degree program at SUNY Broome, then give them the option to transfer to CALS for their final two years.

“This partnership responds directly to our state’s needs for a well-educated workforce. Cornell is pleased to enhance opportunities for students to become future leaders in food science,” said Kathryn J. Boor, the Ronald P. Lynch dean of CALS. “Helping students find their path into food-related careers will go a long way toward solving the problems posed by an ever-growing population that needs sustainable and safe methods of food production.”

In addition to general courses in math and communication, CALS will require students from SUNY Broome to complete courses in chemistry, nutrition and microbiology before transferring. The agreement goes into effect this fall.

“The seamless transfer this initiative allows students is so important to New York state’s food and beverage industry,” said Olga Padilla-Zakour, professor and chair of the Department of Food Science. “Students will be able to continue their training as professionals in food science and enter the industry as more competitive job candidates.”

Kevin E. Drumm, president of SUNY Broome, credited partnerships in the community and with other institutions as strengths of the college. The new collaboration further supports current transfer agreements between the two institutions, according to Drumm.

“These transfer agreements with Cornell give our students a direct pipeline to an Ivy League education – and a pathway to exceptional careers in growing industries. What’s more, our two institutions and the students we educate are also a part of our region’s economic redevelopment, building a stronger, healthier and more vibrant Southern Tier. We thank Cornell for working with us in academic fields that are so vital to a healthy, nutritional future for all of us.”

Melanie Cordova is communications coordinator in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

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