Introducing Madeleine Zenir: A Familiar Face Guiding the Farmers’ Market Forward
By JOSHUA YOUNGQUISTCOOPERSTOWN
The Cooperstown Farmers’ Market has long been one of those places where the community feels most like itself—familiar faces, changing produce, and the weekly rhythm of people stopping to talk with one another. This year, that spirit is being stewarded by Madeleine Zenir, a Cherry Valley native who stepped into the role of market manager with a mix of local roots, organizational precision, and genuine affection for the space she now helps oversee.
Zenir has been coming to the market for years, especially after returning home from college.
“What I love about the market is you’re guaranteed to run into someone you know and connect with people of all ages,” she said. “The vendors know you by name, and it’s exciting knowing the produce selection is changing every week. The atmosphere is really positive, welcoming and all around wholesome.”
That sense of belonging, and the chance to help maintain it, is what drew Zenir to the position.
Alongside her market duties, Zenir also works in research at the New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health in Fly Creek, a role that has shaped her approach to managing operations.
“I love a good spreadsheet and am very organized,” she said.
Zenir already has the market schedule planned for the entire year, but she’s quick to note that things are always evolving.
