Leadership Change Announced at Iowa State Agriculture College

By Andi Anderson

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at Iowa State University has announced an important leadership transition. Daniel Robison, the endowed dean of the college and director of the Iowa Agricultural and Home Economics Experiment Station, will step down from his position on July 31.

Robison has served in leadership roles in agricultural education for many years. Reflecting on his journey, he said, "It has been a tremendous opportunity to lead this most excellent, relevant and impactful college, now ranked fourth in the U.S., and seventh globally, in serving Iowa State's land-grant mission.

After 15 years of being a dean of agriculture, half at West Virginia and half at Iowa State, it is time to transition to other endeavors. I look forward to continuing to serve on the faculty, and to see the college and its people thrive."

Robison joined Iowa State in 2019 after serving at West Virginia University. During his time at CALS, he worked on several key initiatives. He helped stabilize student enrollment and introduced new degree programs.

He also played a major role in increasing research funding and creating farmer-focused programs like the Iowa Nitrogen Initiative.

In addition, he supported global education programs, including partnerships in Uganda and Greece, and led efforts to improve facilities and fundraising. He also introduced the Start Something initiative to encourage innovation.

"Dan has a great passion for the college's people and programs, as well as Iowa State's land-grant mission,” said senior vice president and provost Jason Keith. "I appreciate his leadership and service as dean, and I look forward to his future contributions as a member of the faculty."

After stepping down, Robison will take a one-year period to prepare for teaching and research. He will then join the natural resource ecology and management department as the Mary Moffitt Professor of Excellence.

During this transition period, Ruth MacDonald will take on leadership responsibilities. She will serve as acting dean from June 1 to July 31 and become interim dean starting August 1. MacDonald has been part of Iowa State since 2004 and has held several important roles, including associate dean and department chair.

"Ruth has long been a leader in the college, and will work with students, faculty, staff and stakeholders to steward the college during our leadership transition," Keith said.

The university plans to begin a national search for a new dean in the upcoming fall semester.

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