Matthew Vann will become NC State Extension’s interim associate director and state program leader for Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) and Community and Rural Development (CRD), effective June 1, 2025. He will succeed Dale Monks, who is retiring at the end of May.
Garey Fox, dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at NC State University, said a national search for a new associate director is underway. In the meantime, Vann’s appointment recognizes his proven leadership and longstanding service within the land-grant system and N.C. Cooperative Extension.
In this role, Vann will provide leadership for Extension’s ANR and CRD programming statewide, guiding the work of faculty and staff across NC State’s campus and its statewide network of 101 local Extension centers. He will also serve as a liaison between NC State Extension leadership and county governments, commodity partners and other key stakeholders.
“Dr. Vann is a proven leader who brings a clear understanding of Extension’s mission and the needs of North Carolina communities,” said Fox. “We’re grateful for his willingness to step into this role and help ensure that Extension continues delivering trusted, research-based solutions that benefit communities across North Carolina.”
Vann currently serves as an associate professor and Extension leader in CALS’ Department of Crop and Soil Sciences. Since joining NC State in 2015, he has led a robust applied research and Extension program focused on flue-cured tobacco production, addressing critical issues such as nutrient management, herbicide tolerance and environmental stewardship. He also coordinates NC State Extension’s tobacco team, a multidisciplinary group of faculty and field staff working to meet the evolving needs of growers and the industry.
Originally from a Century Pioneer Family Farm in rural Florida, Vann credits his passion for Extension to his father, Chris, who was a longtime Extension county agent in Lafayette County, Florida. That foundation continues to inform his approach to stakeholder collaboration, problem-solving and service to communities.
Vann earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and both his master’s and Ph.D. in crop science from NC State.
“I’m honored to serve NC State Extension in this role and to help carry forward the important work happening across our state every day,” Vann said. “Extension has shaped my career and my values, and I look forward to supporting our faculty, staff and partners as we continue building strong programs and stronger communities.”
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