Sussex County Community College Unveils Name for School of Agriculture

NEWTON, NJ – Sussex County Community College unveiled its name for the new school of agriculture curriculum introduced at the college, at a special ceremony on Tuesday, September 30.

The Clearing Corporation Charitable Foundation School of Agriculture at Sussex County Community College is the name of the new institution that was officially announced at the event.

The college received a $250,000 donation from the Clearing Corporation Charitable Foundation, which Karen DiMaria, Sussex County Community College Vice President of Institutional Advancement described as the largest single gift that the college has received.

The check that the Sussex County Community College Foundation Received. Photo by Jennifer Jean Miller.

Karen DiMaria at the podium. Photo by Jennifer Jean Miller.

Ira Polk from the Clearing Corporation Board of Trustees has been a partner who has worked towards the advancement of the college, and has been a supporter in internship and mentoring opportunities for the students.

Dr. Paul Mazur gave his thanks to the many partners in the community who have additionally supported this program, which will provide for two degree programs for students, in horticulture, and another in the agricultural business aspect,. Or a student can embark on a combination of both programs.

Dr. Paul Mazur, College President, makes his remarks. Photo by Jennifer Jean Miller.

Polk wanted to help in sustaining New Jersey’s role as the Garden State by raising up students through the program that can develop a background in various agricultural topics including: regulation, crop financing, ecotourism, and all aspects of crop and animal products. Polk said with an increase in food allergies, and his own concern with autoimmune diseases, since he contends with celiac disease, a program of study of this nature is also important.

Ira Polk from the Clearing Corporation Board of Trustees. Photo by Jennifer Jean Miller.

Polk dedicated another $25,000 on Tuesday night to the Sussex County Community College Foundation.

“What a spectacular gift that Ira and the Clearing Corp has given to us,” said Chuck Roberts, Sussex County Community College Foundation’s Chairman.

Chuck Roberts addresses the group. Photo by Jennifer Jean Miller.

Roberts was born in the county, and said he remembers the days when “cows outnumbered those who lived here.” Roberts said he was proud to see what was created with the program, and that it will take the college in a different direction.

Mary Ellen Donner, Sussex County Community College Dean of Science, Math and Business praised Polk for his support.

Mary Ellen Donner thanks Polk. Photo by Jennifer Jean Miller.

“You sir are a mentor to me and our students,” she said. “And I thank you on behalf of the students.”

Click the video below to hear some of the remarks from Dr. Paul Mazur at the event.

Editor’s Note: Click here for the Sussex County Community College press release for the event.

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