COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) has named Shannon Washburn as associate dean for academic programs. His appointment begins June 1, 2026, pending approval by Ohio State’s Board of Trustees.
Washburn currently serves as chair of the Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership at Ohio State CFAES. He joined the college in 2020 and also holds the Sanford G. Price and Isabelle P. Barbee Chair in Teaching, Advising, and Learning.
In his new leadership role, Washburn will focus on strengthening undergraduate education programs, student success, workforce readiness, and academic innovation in agriculture and environmental sciences.
Ohio State officials say Washburn will help modernize curriculum programs, expand hands-on learning opportunities, and improve student advising and mentorship efforts. His work will also focus on preparing students for careers in agriculture, food production, natural resources, and environmental industries.
“Shannon brings a strong commitment to teaching, student success and academic innovation,” said Cathann A. Kress, Ohio State vice president for agricultural administration and CFAES dean.
Washburn said he looks forward to helping students prepare for careers in the evolving agriculture workforce.
Before joining Ohio State University, Washburn served as assistant dean for academic programs in the College of Agriculture at Kansas State University. He earned his PhD in agricultural education from the University of Missouri.
The appointment comes as demand continues to grow for graduates entering the agriculture, food, and environmental sectors across the United States.
