About Us

Our Mission

To strengthen the New York State cheese community through education, outreach, and awareness.

Our Values

To support and empower our membership through networking, community connection, educational opportunities, and business resources.

Who We Serve

The New York State Cheese Council is a 501(c)(6) serving cheesemakers, farmers, retailers, distributors, educators, and the greater cheese community.

Who We Are

Rachel Banks, ACS CCP, President

Cheesemaker, Ordinary Farmstead
East Aurora, NY

Benoit Breal, Board Member

Owner, Saxelby Cheesemongers
New York, NY

Pete Messmer, Board Member

Owner & Head Cheesemaker, Lively Run Dairy
Interlaken, NY

Steve Messmer, Board Member

Owner, Lively Run Dairy
Interlaken, NY

Sarah Simiele, ACS CCP, Board Member

Owner, The Curd Nerd
Syracuse, NY

Emily Smith, Board Member

Plant Manager & Cheesemaker, Eden Valley Creamery
South Dayton, NY