New York Governor Selects Julie LaFave as Director of the State Fair

Governor Kathy Hochul announced Wednesday that Julie LaFave has been appointed Director of the Great New York State Fair

LaFave served as operations director in 2023 and was named interim director earlier in 2024. She has led the planning of the 2024 Fair, helping to book concerts at Chevy Court, as well as spearhead the advertising campaign. She also oversees the day-to-day operations, such as contracting and budgeting, efficiently utilizing the space of over 50 buildings, 375 acres of land, and over 100 staff.

“Julie hit the ground running since joining the Fair and she has been a strong leader, working with our truly talented State Fair team, to develop many new and exciting initiatives and to ensure we remain focused on agriculture first and foremost,” said New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball. “Julie’s experience, passion and innovative thinking have elevated this year’s Fair already, and now, with her leading as Director, I have no doubt that this year’s Fair will truly be one to remember.”

The announcement looks to build Governor Hochul’s investment in agriculture and support growth throughout all fairs in New York. LaFave has a strong reputation for million dollar-level strategic management with her history as Commissioner of the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Youth Programs for the city of Syracuse. She hopes to amplify her resume with a successful attempt at the Fair, which runs from August 21st through Labor Day, Monday, September 2nd.