A retired banker, farmer and former chairman of the Board of Eastern States Exposition, Richard M. Cromack’s guidance and leadership backed by his experience in banking and the agriculture world made a significant contribution to the Exposition’s growth, fostering the agriculture program and ensuring its future. As chairman, he saw the completion of a $6.5 million capital improvement program that involved the renovation of the south side of the fairgrounds, the construction of the Food Court and the completion of the Mallary Agricultural Complex, a 133,175 sq. ft. state-of-the-art building showcasing all competitive livestock under one roof as well as the Milking Parlor and Fiber Nook.

As former chairman of the ESE Foundation, Cromack further guaranteed that agriculture at The Big E will be continually developed through this permanent funding mechanism.