Allegany County Administrator Honored for Completing County Government Institute

The New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) honored Allegany County Administrator Carissa Knapp for graduating from the County Government Institute at a ceremony held during the association’s annual Fall Seminar in Oneida County last week.

Knapp was joined at the ceremony by two other graduates: Warren County Assistant to the County Administrator Tammie DeLorenzo, and Chemung County Legislator John Burin.

From left: NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario, Carissa Knapp, Tammie DeLorenzo, John Burin, and NYSAC Immediate Past President Michael Zurlo

“Continuing education is an important part of providing public service and I am thankful to NYSAC for providing opportunities through CGI to stay informed about the ongoing challenges facing County government,” said Knapp.

Carissa Knapp has served Allegany County as the County Administrator since January of 2020.  An Allegany County native, Mrs. Knapp holds a Juris Doctorate from The George Washington University School of Law and a Master’s Degree in Community Services Administration from Alfred University.  Additionally, Mrs. Knapp holds undergraduate degrees from Alfred University and Alfred State College and is a Belmont Central School alumnus.   Mrs. Knapp is a long-time County employee, having served the County for over eighteen years including previously holding the office of County Attorney.   

The program is a collaboration between NYSAC and Cornell University that provides training to county leaders on topics including building consensus, financial management, ethics, management, and the foundations of county government. 

“By completing the County Government Institute coursework, graduates demonstrate a commitment to excellence in local government that is at the heart of our association’s mission,” said NYSAC President Daniel P. McCoy. “The skills and knowledge they acquire is a great asset to them and the communities they serve. On behalf of our entire association, I offer my congratulations.” 

"The County Government Institute provides local government leaders and officials with the tools necessary to meet the increasing demands of local government leadership,” said NYSAC Executive Director Stephen J. Acquario. “They now join the ranks of more than a hundred County Government Institute graduates who are making a positive impact in communities across the state.”

CGI courses are offered at the annual Fall Seminar, as well as the winter Legislative Conference and County Finance School in May. Courses are also offered virtually or regionally throughout the year to enable county leaders to stay up-to-date on timely issues and opportunities in local government. 

Elected and appointed county officials can register for the Institute and actively participate in its programs, policy forums and informational sessions. For more information about the County Government Institute, visit www.nysac.org/cgi.

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Media Contact: Mark LaVigne | MLavigne@nysac.org | 518-465-1473 x206