VSU appoints associate dean and associate research director of College of Agriculture

PETERSBURG, Va. (WRIC) -- Virginia State University (VSU) has announced the new associate dean and associate research director for the College of Agriculture, officially appointed on Friday.

VSU announced Dr. Ronald M. Howell Jr. as the new associate dean and associate research director in the College of Agriculture, effective Friday, April 25, and according to the university, he is a VCU alum.

“I am excited about the opportunity to return to Virginia State University as associate dean and associate research director in the College of Agriculture,” Howell said.

“Right now, we are navigating challenging times in agriculture across the nation and even globally,” he added. “In these times, we must rethink traditional approaches to develop broad-based, system-oriented programs in the areas of business, climate, health, energy, and food.”

Howell, the former State Executive Director of the Virginia Farm Service Agency (FSA) and Senior Policy Advisor for USDA-FSA, will said he plans to "foster innovation and collaboration among faculty and researchers."

With experience in agricultural production, small and limited-resource farmers and urban agriculture, VSU said that he oversaw $300 million annually in farm loans and programs in Virginia and helped advance farmers' access to market and land.

“Forging new directions in the development of inter- and transdisciplinary agricultural research programs—by engaging cross-disciplined faculty, research scientists, and students—helps us address local, statewide, global, and societal challenges,” Howell said. “This level of engagement contributes to an environment that both encourages and rewards innovation, flexibility, entrepreneurship, and productivity.”

The university said Howell received his B.A. in agriculture from VSU, his master’s degree in agricultural and extension education from Virginia Tech and a doctorate in P-20 education and community leadership from Murray State University.

“As a land-grant institution, Virginia State is uniquely positioned to drive innovation, strengthen rural and urban communities, and prepare the next generation of agricultural leaders,” Howell said, commenting on VSU's land-grant agriculture-related mission. “I look forward to building on the college’s strong foundation and working alongside faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders to elevate the college’s research portfolio and advance our shared mission.”