A Well-Deserved Honor: Erie County Fair CEO Jessica Underberg Named Woman of the Year

Big news out of the Erie County Fair, and honestly, it's something to celebrate! Jessica Underberg, the fair's incredibly capable CEO, has just been bestowed with a truly prestigious international award. She's been named 'Woman of the Year' by the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE), and if you know anything about the fair industry, that's a massive deal – a real testament to her unwavering dedication and visionary leadership.

This isn't just any award; it’s an acknowledgement from her peers on a global stage, highlighting years of hard work and an undeniable impact on the fair world. It really makes you think about the journey she's been on. Jessica didn't just walk into the CEO office, you know. Her story with the Erie County Fair actually began way back in 1999 when she joined as a summer intern. From a summer gig to leading one of the most beloved and successful fairs in North America? That's a trajectory that genuinely inspires.

Over the years, Jessica steadily climbed the ranks, proving her mettle and commitment every step of the way. She served as the Fair’s Marketing Manager, then as the Deputy Manager, always bringing fresh ideas and a relentless work ethic to the table. Eventually, her exceptional talent led her to the top, taking the helm as CEO. It's a classic tale of dedication paying off, and frankly, we love to see it.

Her leadership has been particularly crucial in navigating some incredibly challenging times, especially those tough pandemic years. Steering an event as massive and complex as the Erie County Fair through uncharted waters, with so much uncertainty looming, takes a special kind of resilience and foresight. Under her guidance, the fair not only weathered the storm but emerged stronger, continuing its tradition of bringing joy and community spirit to Western New York.

And it's not just about surviving; it’s about thriving. Jessica’s commitment to community engagement and innovative programming has solidified the Erie County Fair's standing as a premier event. This 'Woman of the Year' award isn't her first brush with industry recognition either. She’s previously been a prominent figure within the IAFE itself, even serving as the Chair of their Board of Directors in 2017. So, this honor feels like a culmination, a well-deserved recognition for a career defined by leadership, innovation, and an unshakeable passion for fairs.

It's truly a proud moment for Jessica, for the entire Erie County Fair team, and for our whole community. Her dedication makes a real difference, and this award shines a brilliant, international spotlight on that incredible work.