Unlocking the Future: The Third Annual SUNY Cannabis Conference 2023

SUNY Niagara is gearing up to host the highly anticipated Third Annual SUNY Cannabis Conference on January 13 and 14, 2023. This year’s conference is projected to be a larger and more engaging experience, promising to bring together a diverse group of enthusiasts, professionals, and experts in the cannabis industry.

The Culinary Kickoff

The first day of the conference will be held at the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute located on Old Falls Street, running from 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. This day will emphasize culinary cannabis, featuring gourmet infused dining options crafted by renowned chef Nathan Koscielski. Attendees can look forward to a delicious infused lunch and dinner at the institute’s Savor restaurant.

Exploring the Cannabis Landscape

Day two shifts to SUNY Niagara’s Sanborn campus, with activities scheduled from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.. This day is tailored to engage local businesspeople, educators, medical professionals, and anyone keen to deepen their understanding of the dynamic cannabis industry.

Throughout the second day, discussions will be held in various venues including the Dining Commons, Community Room, and Room E142, covering diverse topics such as:

• Cannabis history
• Panel discussions with experienced growers
• Medical applications of cannabis

A Glimpse into the Future

Expecting a turnout of 120 attendees on the first day and 300 on the second, Carolyn Stanko, co-coordinator of the horticulture program at SUNY Niagara, is enthusiastic about the conference’s expansion. The first two years of the conference were met with overwhelming success, having grown to span two days and two locations last year, attracting attendees and speakers from all over the country.

Notable Speakers

This year’s conference will feature an impressive lineup of keynote speakers and guest speakers, including:

• Ed Rosenthal – Renowned cannabis cultivation expert and legislative advocate for over 50 years
• Dr. Dustin Sulak – Notable figure in the cannabis field representing Healer.com
• Daniela Vergara, PhD – Emerging crops specialist with Cornel Cooperative Extension
• Anna Schwabe, PhD – Cannabis scientist and geneticist
• Justin Esquivel – CEO and geneticist with Green Luster Phenos
• Samuel Haiden – PhD candidate at the University of Connecticut
• Mike Casacci – CEO and Founder of House of Sacci
• Dr. Jose Leme – Assistant professor of cannabis at Southern Illinois University
• Stephanie Hua – Author of Edibles: Small Bites for the Modern Cannabis Kitchen
• Hawaii Mike – Founder of Chef for Higher
• Tremaine Wright – Chairwoman of the NYS Cannabis Control Board
• Dr. Riley Kirk – Cannabis researcher from the Network of Applied Pharmacosgnosy

Collaborative Efforts in Education

The SUNY Cannabis Conference is presented in collaboration with SUNY Erie, Jamestown Community College, and Genesee Community College. Collectively, they were instrumental in securing a $1 million SUNY cannabis workforce grant in July 2022, aimed at developing short-term credential programs and offerings related to the cannabis industry. This grant has significantly contributed to the success of the conference over the past three years.

If you’re interested in joining this year’s festivities or expanding your knowledge of the cannabis landscape, tickets are available online. For any inquiries, feel free to reach out via email at [email protected].

Conclusion

The Third Annual SUNY Cannabis Conference is a not-to-be-missed event for anyone passionate about cannabis, whether you’re in the culinary field, medicine, or simply curious about this evolving industry. This conference not only provides an opportunity to learn from industry leaders but also fosters networking among participants dedicated to advancing cannabis knowledge and practices.