At the 2023 Cornell Cooperative Extension of Monroe County Annual Meeting, the Edgar Santa Cruz Community Outreach Award was presented to a team member who exemplifies the qualities of Edgar Santa Cruz, past staff and board member.
Edgar served as a Cornell Cooperative Extension of Monroe County (CCE Monroe) Board of Director, and for a short time, as a staff member. He could always be found serving others behind the scenes. Edgar devoted his life to people living on the margins of society – feeding and clothing those who are under-resourced, cultivating community gardens, and mentoring youth. Edgar was always the first to say, “I’ll be there,” whether it was to lead a workshop, carry tables at an event, or serve on countless committees within our community; he never turned down an opportunity to lend a hand. He was a true leader. On December 22, 2022, Edgar and his faithful dog, Rosey, were fatally struck in a hit-and-run in the city while on an evening walk. CCE Monroe made this award in an effort to remember their friend and community champion by reflecting Edgar’s energy, compassion, and genuine love for others.
Award nominations were submitted by staff, volunteers, and community partners based on specific criteria reflective of Edgar’s life.
This year’s award was presented to Master Gardener Volunteer, Stacey Shedden. Stacey is a tireless volunteer who, similar to Edgar, can be found at many events and is often at the CCE Monroe office caring for the gardens and plant nursery until dusk or later. She is respectful of all people, wears a smile even in 90-degree heat or a 32-degree chill. Stacey loves to educate others and does so in a most humble way. Stacey’s commitment to community outreach is evident in how she serves others, completes tasks to which others are disinclined, and provides support to several different outreach arms to ensure program success.
The mission of Cooperative Extension is to enable people to improve their lives and communities through partnerships that put experience and research knowledge to work. Extension staff and trained volunteers deliver education programs, conduct applied research, and encourage community collaborations. Educators connect people with the information they need on topics such as commercial and consumer agriculture; nutrition and health; youth and families; and more. CCE Monroe’s ability to match university resources with community needs helps them play a vital role in the lives of individuals, families, businesses, and communities throughout Monroe County. To learn more about CCE Monroe outreach, visit http://monroe.cce.cornell.edu or call 585-753-2550.
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