The University of Idaho named Leslie Edgar as the new J.R. Simplot endowed dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences.

Edgar now works as associate dean of research at the Washington State University College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences and director of the Agricultural Research Center.

Earlier, she spent three years at New Mexico State University in a similar role, three years at the University of Georgia as a department head and 11 years at the University of Arkansas, where she went through the faculty ranks and served as assistant dean for student programs.

Her candidacy for UI agriculture dean “demonstrated strong experience at land grant institutions, extensive understanding of research and teaching, and varied leadership roles at both department and college levels,” Torrey Lawrence, UI provost and executive vice president, said in a news release.

Edgar, an Idaho native, grew up on a family owned farm in Kuna.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Utah State University and a master’s in agricultural systems, technology and education, also from Utah State. She earned a doctorate in agricultural leadership, education and communication from Texas A&M University.

Edgar’s research focuses on models for effective communication management strategies and 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 USDA.

“I am honored to return to Idaho and lead a college that plays such a vital role across the state,” she 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.”

Edgar will start June 23. She succeeds Michael Parrella, who is retiring June 21 after nine years as dean. Parrella led numerous key initiatives and helped elevate the college of agriculture to a No. 13 ranking in the nation, according to UI.

Parrella’s leadership “has left a lasting impact on Idaho agriculture,” Samantha Parrott, Snake River Sugarbeet Growers Association executive director, Food Producers of Idaho secretary and member of the UI Foundation board told Capital Press. “His dedication to research, innovation and industry collaboration has strengthened the college and positioned Idaho as a leader. The sugar beet industry is especially grateful for his commitment to enhancing the (UI) Parma Research and Extension Center. We are grateful for his years of service and commitment to advancing the entire agricultural industry.”

“As we look to the future, we’re excited to welcome Dean Leslie Edgar,” Parrott said. “With her strong background in agricultural communications and leadership, we look forward to working alongside her to set a strategic vision that builds on Dean Parrella’s success and continues to drive the college forward.”

Edgar’s experience “has established her as a leader who can motivate and innovate,” Idaho Farm Bureau Federation CEO Zak Miller said. The bureau “feels a responsibility and duty to link arm-in-arm with Dr. Edgar to ensure that the momentum of the University of Idaho CALS continues under her watchful eyes.” UI and Farm Bureau “have a duty to support and lift up the farmers and ranchers of Idaho.”

“We’re excited to work with Dean Edgar,” said Idaho Dairymen’s Association CEO Rick Naerebout. The association “is excited to see the next dean of the college be a homegrown talent.”

The association will watch for a continuation of the good relationship Parrella forged with the industry, and of Parrella’s focus on research and extension centers as well as other research-centered facilities, he said.