Campus interviews set for College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences dean finalists

Alcorn State University is excited to announce the on-campus interviews for three finalists for the Dean of the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences position, which will take place on February 21, February 22, and February 23, 2024. The interviews will be held at the Agriculture Extension & Research Complex, Ray E. Johnson Auditorium in Lorman, Miss.

Various groups will have the chance to engage with each finalist, and we invite the Alcorn State community to attend the open forums.

These sessions will feature a presentation on “A vision on advancing the land grant mission as Dean of the College of Agriculture & Applied Sciences”, followed by a Q&A session. We encourage in-person participation.

Candidate #1 | Dr. Kwaku Addo

Dr. Kwaku Addo is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of food science and nutrition. Holding a Ph.D. in food science from Washington State University and an M.S. in biochemistry from the University of Idaho, Dr. Addo has an impressive educational background. His career includes roles such as professor and associate dean at Prairie View A&M University, and various positions at the University of Kentucky, including interim chair and associate dean. Dr. Addo’s research interests lie in food product development, nitrogen management in wheat quality, and protein interactions in food. He has numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals and has been actively involved in academic and professional communities. Additionally, he has received several honors and awards for his contributions to education and research.

Itinerary | Wednesday, February 21, 2024

9am – Meet w/College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences Staff

10:15am – Meet w/Open Forum

11:15am – Meet w/CAAS Students

12:15pm – Meet w/CAAS Faculty

12:45pm – Meet w/CAAS Associate/Assistant Deans & Department Chairs

1:30pm – Dean’s Council

2pm – Meet w/Ag Alumni

Candidate #2 | Dr. Doze Butler

Dr. Doze Y. Butler, Ph.D., MBA, has held various roles at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, including tenured professor of Merchandising, Textiles, and Design, and adjunct professor at the School of Business and Management. She has previously served as dean/director of the School of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Human Sciences at the same university. Dr. Butler earned her Ph.D. in clothing and fashion merchandising from Texas Woman’s University and an MBA from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. Her extensive professional experience is marked by significant contributions in teaching, research, and administrative leadership across various universities.

Itinerary | Thursday, February 22, 2024

9am – Meet w/College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences Staff

10:15am – Meet w/Open Forum

11:15am – Meet w/CAAS Students

12:15pm – Meet w/CAAS Faculty

12:45pm – Meet w/CAAS Associate/Assistant Deans & Department Chairs

1:30pm – Dean’s Council

2pm – Meet w/Ag Alumni

Candidate #3 | Dr. Dexter Wakefield

Dr. Dexter Wakefield, Ph.D., currently serves as the professor and interim dean and director of Land Grant Programs at Alcorn State University’s College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy in curriculum and instructions agriculture & extension education from Purdue University. His career spans various roles in academic leadership and teaching, with extensive experience in administration, curriculum development, and diversity and inclusion initiatives in agricultural education. Dr. Wakefield is known for his active engagement in professional development and his commitment to advancing agricultural education through innovative and inclusive approaches.

Itinerary | Friday, February 23, 2024

9am – Meet w/College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences Staff

10:15am – Meet w/Open Forum

11:15am – Meet w/CAAS Students

12:15pm – Meet w/CAAS Faculty

12:45pm – Meet w/CAAS Associate/Assistant Deans & Department Chairs

1:30pm – Dean’s Council

2pm – Meet w/Ag Alumni