Soil Scientist to Take Lead of Virginia Tech's Department of Crop and Soil Environmental Science

BLACKSBURG, Va., Feb. 13, 2001 -- Steven C. Hodges, a professor of soil science with extensive experience with Cooperative Extension, will assume the lead of Virginia Tech's Department of Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences on May 1.

"Extension is a critical component of this department, which provides support to a large segment of Virginia's agriculture industry," said Agriculture Dean Andy Swiger. "Dr. Hodges' knowledge of and recognized leadership in extension programming will allow us to continue to provide the support our farmers have come to expect from Virginia Tech and the support they deserve."

Just as important, Swiger said, is Hodges' experience with research and with the education of students.

He will be leading faculty members who conduct basic and applied agronomic and environmental research, communicate that research to farmers, policy makers, and other clientele through Virginia Cooperative Extension, and teach undergraduate and graduate students.

"It is unusual to find a department with nationally recognized research and extension programs in areas as diverse as biotechnology, crop improvement and management, and soil and water science that is so committed to excellent teaching," said Hodges. "Although these are very challenging times, I am very excited to join a department focused on meeting the critical scientific and educational needs of today's and tomorrow's farmers and environmental managers."

Currently a member of the faculty at North Carolina State University, Hodges serves not only as a professor in the Department of Soil Science but he has been the department's Extension leader and an Extension nutrient management specialist, as well.

Hodges replaces Jack Hall, who retired Jan. 1. The department is being lead in the interim by professors Dan Brann, Mark Alley, and Dave Parrish

Hodges earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Florida, and his doctorate from Virginia Tech. He served on the faculties of Clemson University and the University of Georgia before joining NCSU in 1993. He is a member of the American Society of Agronomy, the Soil Science Society of America, and other professional and honor organizations.