SYRACUSE, New York (WWNY) – As the new semester kicks off, SUNY students have a reason to take a break before the books take over: free admission to the Great New York State Fair.<\/p>\n
Governor Kathy Hochul announced that all current SUNY students with a valid student ID, and all incoming SUNY students with an admission letter, can get into the Great New York State Fair for free on Thursday, August 27, which is designated Student Youth Day. The fair runs Wednesday, August 26 through Labor Day, September 7.<\/p>\n
What to expect at the fair<\/p>\n
The Great New York State Fair, run by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, has operated since 1841. It features performances, exhibits, competitions, food and family-friendly activities.<\/p>\n
SUNY campuses from across the state will have a presence at the fair this year, with booths, farm animals, equipment and research displays. Participating campuses and their offerings include:<\/p>\n
SUNY Binghamton \u2014 A booth showcasing work from the National Science Foundation Energy Storage Engine on battery technology development.SUNY Cobleskill Ag & Tech \u2014 An Agriculture Career Day with an electrical circuit building activity and tractors promoting the JD Tech program, plus a daily display in the Future Farmers of America Tent.SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) \u2014 Hands-on STEM activities August 26 through September 4, covering engineering, chemistry, invasive species and the American chestnut tree restoration project.SUNY Morrisville \u2014 Hands-on learning displays including student participation in livestock judging at the cattle and sheep barns, faculty oversight of the herdsmanship contest in the dairy barn and an information table in the dairy cattle building. University Police Officer Nicole Wright and K-9s Bruin and Ty will also appear during Law Enforcement Day on August 31.SUNY College of Optometry, in partnership with SUNY Upstate Medical University \u2014 Vision screenings on September 2, highlighting the new SUNY Optometry extension campus at SUNY Upstate, which opens in 2027.SUNY Upstate Medical University \u2014 Mobile Mammography Van screenings September 2 and 3 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., along with its She Matters breast cancer screening support program and its Pathway program highlighting healthcare career preparation. The campus will also staff the fair\u2019s infirmary.What officials said<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Great New York State Fair is one of New York\u2019s most beloved annual traditions, where New Yorkers gather to celebrate the best of our state,\u201d Hochul said. \u201cNow, through free admission to this wonderful event, more SUNY students will be able to learn more about New York\u2019s extensive agricultural industry, history and culture, and enjoy all that the fair has to offer.\u201d<\/p>\n
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said the university system is \u201cthrilled to partner with The Great New York State Fair to provide more opportunities for current and incoming students to celebrate New York State.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThere is a place at SUNY for every New Yorker, and SUNY campuses from across New York participate in the State Fair and provide visitors with the opportunity to learn about how our courses and programs can set them on a path to upward mobility,\u201d King said.<\/p>\n
New York State Fair Director Julie LaFave said the fair is \u201cproud to welcome SUNY students to celebrate all New York has to offer.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWith incredible food and live entertainment, educational exhibits and diverse cultural traditions, the fair showcases the very best of the Empire State,\u201d LaFave said.<\/p>\n
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