Cornell Cooperative Extension has appointed Kathy Bunting-Howarth, J.D., Ph.D., critical issue lead for extension programming in environmental systems, effective January 1. 

Through her two-year appointment, Bunting-Howarth will look to strengthen connections between campus expertise and CCE educators and collaborators statewide, ensuring that Extension programming responds to community needs and advances effective planning, evaluation, and educational impact. She will work closely with aligned CCE Program Work Teams and Department Extension Leaders, and help guide program planning efforts.

Bunting-Howarth will continue to serve as an assistant director for CCE and as associate director of the New York Sea Grant Institute.

“Networking and connections are integral to successful extension programming,” said Bunting-Howarth. “I’m excited to work with both our county educators and campus-based experts to support the people and resources of New York state.”

Bunting-Howarth brings extensive leadership experience in environmental policy, coastal and water resource management, and community-engaged extension programming. Her work focuses on socio-ecological resilience, climate adaptation, and the human dimensions of environmental decision-making, with a strong emphasis on helping diverse stakeholders address complex environmental challenges. She has led initiatives supporting climate resilience, coastal community sustainability, and municipal participation in climate action programs, including development of the Cornell Climate Stewards program. 

“We are excited to have Kathy step into this crucial role,” said Dr. Andy Turner, director of Cornell Cooperative Extension. “Her background in environmental systems and collaborative leadership, along with her commitment to connecting research with Extension staff, will help us better support communities and tackle the environmental challenges facing New York state.”