Commissioner of Agriculture John Stulp has appointed Kathay Rennels to serve on the Colorado State Fair Board of Authority.
“Ms. Rennels has a vast knowledge of agriculture and fairs and I’m pleased she will be sharing her experiences and expertise with the Fair Board,” said Stulp. “Throughout the years, Kathay has proven her dedication to the agricultural community and I am thrilled she has accepted this position.”
“The Colorado State Fair is a tradition in Colorado. It culminates and enhances the various county fairs across the state,” said Rennels. “Being sure it remains a viable part of Pueblo and the State of Colorado is an exciting partnership for myself and Colorado State University.”
Rennels has recently joined Colorado State University as director of economic development. Her appointment as a commissioner on the State Fair Board will expand the existing partnership between CDA and CSU.
“With Kathay’s boundless energy, together with her extensive knowledge of rural economies and Colorado agriculture, she will be a great addition to this Board,” said CSU President Dr. Tony Frank. “A strong and vibrant State Fair benefits all of Colorado, and CSU is proud to help support this outstanding annual showcase for our state’s agricultural strengths.”
Prior to joining Colorado State University in January, Rennels served as a Larimer County Commissioner where she was lead Commissioner for the Larimer County Fairgrounds and Event Center, Budweiser Event Center and The Embassy Suites. She served as Larimer County Commissioner for 12 years and is a member of the Colorado Cattlewomen’s Association and the Women’s Small Business Administration.
A lifelong rancher and small business owner, Rennels has been particularly active as a representative of rural communities, largely through her work with the county and Colorado Counties Inc. She recently finished her term as president of Colorado Counties Inc., where she has also been active in such committees as the Tax and Finance Committee and the Ag, Wildlife and Rural Affairs Committee.
“Kathay’s economic and agricultural knowledge will add another layer of leadership onto the State Fair Board of Authority,” said General Manager Chris Wiseman. “Every year, the Board and State Fair staff strives to provide an event that teaches the significance of agriculture to our families and our state.”
“Agriculture is a cornerstone of Colorado’s economy and we need to actively highlight its importance,” said Craig Beyrouty, dean of CSU’s College of Agricultural Sciences. “Through Kathay’s service on the State Fair Board, CSU can become further engaged with this important constituency and leading Colorado industry.”
The Colorado State Fair Board of Authority is made up of an 11 member panel; 10 are appointed by the Governor and one is appointed by the Commissioner of Agriculture. The board helps make vital decisions surrounding the annual event including budgeting, entertainment, maintenance, and rules and regulations; the group meets monthly and those meetings are open to the public.
The Colorado State Fair runs from Aug. 27 through Sept. 6. For information, visit www.coloradostatefair.com.
PUEBLO, Colo. —
