U of I names Leslie Edgar to lead College of Agricultural and Life Sciences

MOSCOW, Idaho — University of Idaho has announced Leslie Edgar as the new J.R. Simplot Endowed Dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS).

She comes to U of I from Washington State University, where she currently serves as the associate dean of research for the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences and the director of the Agricultural Research Center.

“Her candidacy demonstrated strong experience at land grant institutions, extensive understanding of research and teaching, and varied leadership roles at both department and college levels,” Provost and Executive Vice President Torrey Lawrence said.

Before joining WSU, Edgar spent three years at New Mexico State University in a similar role, three years at University of Georgia as a department head and 11 years at University of Arkansas, where she went through the faculty ranks and served as assistant dean for student programs. She holds a bachelor’s degree in animal science, a master’s degree in agricultural systems, technology and education, and a doctorate in agricultural leadership, education and communication.

Her research focuses on models for effective communication management strategies as well as on human capital in agriculture. She has published more than 70 peer-reviewed journal articles, secured millions of dollars in grants and contracts, and earned numerous research and teaching awards, including the National New Teacher Award for Excellence in College and University Teaching from the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Edgar is an Idaho native, having grown up on a family-owned farm in Kuna, and she was educated at land-grant institutions, which shaped her belief in their transformative impact on their communities.

Edgar succeeds Michael P. Parrella, who is retiring June 21 after nine years leading the college. Parrella has led numerous key initiatives and helped elevate the college to a No. 13 ranking in the nation. Edgar will begin June 23.

“I am honored to return to Idaho and lead a college that plays such a vital role across the state,” Edgar said. “As a land-grant institution, U of I is uniquely positioned to drive innovation, strengthen rural communities and prepare the next generation of agricultural leaders. I look forward to building on the college’s strong foundation and working alongside faculty, staff, students and stakeholders to advance our shared mission.”.

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Media contact:

Danae Lenz
External Communications Coordinator
406-672-4600
dlenz@uidaho.edu