After a nationwide search, John Lawrence was announced March 26 as vice president of Iowa State's extension and outreach programs. He began in the role immediately.
John Lawrence
"I am honored to serve my colleagues, the university, and the entire state of Iowa as the leader of Extension and Outreach,"
Lawrence said. "I look forward to working with our talented faculty, staff and partners to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Iowans."
Lawrence, interim vice president since March 2017, previously served as associate dean in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and an extension and outreach director.
"John has a long history of scholarship and administrative service, and is uniquely qualified to lead ISU Extension and Outreach," said President Wendy Wintersteen. "I feel confident he will work to strengthen important extension programs and partnerships and enhance the connections of our faculty, staff and students to Iowa communities."
In making the announcement, senior vice president and provost Jonathan Wickert praised Lawrence for his performance in the interim role. He thanked members of the search committee for their thoughtful consideration of candidates.
Lawrence holds a bachelor's degree in animal science and a master's degree in economics, both from Iowa State; and a Ph.D. in agricultural economics from the University of Missouri. He joined Iowa State in 1991 as an assistant professor of economics, serving as an extension livestock economist. He also has served as assistant director of the Agriculture Experiment Station and director of the Iowa Beef Center.
Lawrence also led the Iowa Nutrient Research Center, established in 2013 to develop science-based approaches for reducing the level of nutrients delivered to Iowa waterways and the Gulf of Mexico.
