Archive: Around Town

In recognition of her extraordinary commitment to the fields of agriculture and science, and especially in the field of agriculture genetics, Dr. Susan Brown was among the outstanding women from across New York State who were honored at the 2014 "Women of Distinction" ceremony yesterday at the State Capitol. Dr. Brown, who is the co-inventor of four new apple varieties and ten different sweet cherry varieties, was nominated for this honor by State Senator Mike Nozzolio.

"It was a privilege to recognize Dr. Susan Brown for her knowledge, skills and expertise as a scientist, as well as her extraordinary work at Cornell University’s Agricultural Experiment Station in Geneva, NY.  Dr. Brown's research has led to creation of new apple varieties as well as other fruit varieties that have had a positive impact on the agriculture industry throughout the world," said Senator Nozzolio. “Dr. Brown's research has centered on the production of apples and ways to extend the shelf life of the product.  As a result, the apple industry has been growing and expanding in ways that benefit the industry and consumers.

As director of Cornell’s Fruit and Vegetable Genomics Initiative and head of the apple breeding program at the Cornell Agricultural Experiment Station, Dr. Brown is at the forefront of apple development and genetic modification throughout the entire world. Susan was awarded the 2013 SUNY’s Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Faculty Service.

In 2010, Cornell University partnered with a newly formed grower organization, New York Apple Growers LLC, to offer every apple grower in New York State the opportunity to join the organization for exclusive rights to commercialize two new varieties from the Cornell apple breeding program.  In 2013, these two new varieties,  ‘SnapDragon™’ and ‘RubyFrost™’ were introduced to consumers and were received enthusiastically by the public.


Dr. Brown is the author of many publications, chapters on apple breeding and genetics and a host of articles for the apple industry.  She has trained many graduate students and has been invited to speak in many countries throughout the world. Whether developing new varieties, training graduate students, or working with the apple industry, Dr. Brown is committed to helping others benefit from the application of scientific research.

The Women of Distinction program was established in 1998 to celebrate the rich heritage of outstanding women throughout New York State.  From the past to the present, women throughout history have contributed to the success of our state and Nation and it was an honor to recognize Dr. Brown at today's ceremony.

Dr. Brown was joined at the State Capitol by her husband, Martin and her daughter, Lauren.

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