By Andi Anderson
The University of Illinois Extension has announced the appointment of Matthew Vann as its new associate dean and director. Vann joins Illinois Extension from North Carolina State University, where he served as interim associate director and program leader for Agriculture & Natural Resources and Community & Rural Development.
At NC State, he oversaw statewide Extension efforts across 101 county centers and provided leadership in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences. His work focused on nutrient management, herbicide tolerance, and environmental stewardship while aligning applied research with community and producer needs.
Vann’s appointment comes at a critical time for Illinois Extension. Following recent federal policy changes, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) funding was eliminated nationwide.
In Illinois, the program was delivered through Eat.Move.Save., reaching over 240 communities and providing one million annual educational contacts. The loss of funding led to staff reductions and the end of all Eat.Move.Save. programming, creating the need for strong leadership.
Dean Germán Bollero of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences praised Vann as a leader with vision and commitment to Extension’s mission, stating his collaborative spirit will be essential in navigating this transition.
Originally from rural Florida, Vann grew up on a pioneer farm and was influenced by his father, who worked as a county Extension agent. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and both his master’s and doctorate from NC State.
“I am honored to join Illinois Extension at this critical moment,” Vann said. “We are facing real challenges but also real opportunities to reimagine how Extension serves communities and fulfills its land-grant promise.”
Vann will begin his new role on September 22, succeeding interim director Durriyyah Kemp, who will continue to serve in regional leadership.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-brzozowska
Categories: Illinois, General, Rural Lifestyle