HARRISBURG, April 13, 2011 – State Senator Judy Schwank will serve as Democratic Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Democratic Leaders announced today.
Schwank, who was sworn in last week to complete the term of the late Senator Michael O’Pake, said the committee is an opportunity to continue to boost Pennsylvania’s largest industry.
“I am pleased to chair this very important committee,” Schwank said. “Agriculture is so very critical to Pennsylvania’s economy with approximately $6.1 billion in annual revenue. I will continue to foster initiatives that invest in agriculture and boost economic development and stability in Pennsylvania’s rural communities.”
Senator Schwank has a long history of agriculture experience. She received her B.S. and M.Ed. in agricultural education from Penn State University. Schwank then worked as a Berks County horticultural agent with the Penn State Cooperative Extension for 19 years, during which time she established the Master Gardener Program. In 1991, she became the first female director of the Berks County Cooperative Extension Program, a position she held until 1999. In January 2010, she was appointed Dean of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at Delaware Valley College.
“In the midst of such financial difficulties, it is imperative that we continue to consider new and innovative ways to enhance agriculture in the state,” Schwank said. “It is also imperative that we continue to protect our food sources and our citizens with strict food inspection policies and regulations.”
Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa, (D-Allegheny), said Schwank brings a magnitude of knowledge and experience to the committee.
“Senator Schwank has had a long career in the agriculture industry which gives her a unique perspective into the needs of Pennsylvania,” Costa said. “Her leadership will help create new opportunities to boost agricultural economic development and ensure the protection of the health and safety of Pennsylvania citizens through smart food inspection policies.”
Schwank will also serve on the Senate Aging & Youth, Public Health & Welfare, Local Government and Intergovernmental Affairs committees.
“These diverse committee assignments will provide me added opportunities to assist the citizens of Berks County and throughout Pennsylvania,” Schwank said. “I am looking forward to the challenges of each committee.”
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