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College of Agriculture finds new dean

The College of Agriculture's one-year search for a new dean has come to an end. Beginning Aug. 1, Gary Minish will take over the position.

A retired professor of animal science at Virginia Tech, Minish, whose career in agriculture spans more than 35 years, said he is pleased to get the position.

"I'm excited about it," Minish said. "I think there is great potential there. I think I have the background and experience to build on their strengths and I'm looking forward to the years ahead in that position."

Minish will take the reigns from Robert Arthur, a professor of animal science and food and nutrition. Arthur has been serving as interim dean of the college since former dean David Shoup stepped down in 2003.

Authur, who has known Minish for more than 25 years, said he believes Minish was a good choice for the college because he has the ability to lead the college in a positive direction with time.

"With his ideas and background experience, he will be able to lead the college into the next decade, " Authur said.

Growing up in rural Iowa on a beef cattle farm, Minish said his love for agriculture began at a young age.

"I like livestock," Minish said. "I like the farming part of it, the grains, and I like the natural resources and environmental things that go along with it. My whole life has been spent working in agriculture. That's my passion. It's my life, my career and it's my hobby."

One of three applicants vying for the position, Provost and Vice Chancellor John Dunn said Minish was the most preferred applicant because of his knowledge of agricultural sciences and his ability to interact with faculty and students.

"We had a very strong pool of applicants," Dunn said. "Dr. Minish was very impressive in his response to questions and his ability to interact with faculty, staff and students."

Minish said his long-term goals for the college include increasing undergraduate and graduate student enrollment, research efforts and building ties with the agriculture industry.