CAMPBELL HALL – Rich Mayfield, a lifelong Orange County resident, was honored with the “Distinguished Service” Award at the Cornell Cooperative Extension’s (CCE) 110th Annual Meeting and Awards Celebration this week at The Country Club at Otterkill.
Mayfield, a former CCE board member and volunteer, was recognized for his years of service to CCE Orange County. The “Friend of Extension” Award was given to Dave & Kim LeBlanc for all their contributions to the CCE. Exceptional CCE volunteers Cecille Jones, Gary Johnson, Bob Nywening, Megan Wieboldt, Doug Carter, and Wendy Nocar were also recognized at the event.
During the business meeting portion of the evening, Orange County residents were elected to the Board of Directors. Elected to serve on the Board of Directors for 2026: Amy Minutolo, Edwin Estrada, Jill Marie, David Goggins, Mingjia “Jacky” Guan, Tiffany Chapman, and Diane Aboushi Saleh. Each new Board of Directors electee will serve a three-year term with the organization.
“It’s truly an honor to be recognized by the Cornell Cooperative Extension, an organization that has meant so much to Orange County over the years,” Mayfield said. “This award is not just a reflection of my work, but of the collective effort of everyone at CCE Orange County who strives to make a difference. I’m grateful to be a part of such a dedicated team and look forward to continuing to support this incredible organization.”
Mayfield is in his second stint as State Director for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development in New York and has more than 30 years of federal, state, and county government experience. Before the USDA, Mayfield served as the Director of Central Services for Dutchess County. He has extensive experience in government and economic development, having served as the Director of Inter-Governmental Relations with the New York State Assembly in Albany.
After that role, Mayfield was Orange County’s Director of Operations, Press Secretary, and Director of Community Development. Mayfield began his career in public service with Congressman Benjamin A. Gilman, serving as Case Worker, Office Manager, Director of Grants and Projects, and ultimately District Director.
“The Annual Meeting and Awards Presentation is a great occasion to share the positive impact of CCE Orange County’s programs,” said Lucy Joyce, CCE Orange County Executive Director. “It also gives us an opportunity to acknowledge our community members and celebrate the individuals who help carry our mission forward – thank you for your continued support.”
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