Dear Alumni,
New leadership in higher education and at the University of Kentucky has focused much attention on the critical role universities must play in economic advancement. Probably the most important way we can contribute to this mission is through a continuing commitment to quality instruction, student success, and preparation of society-ready graduates.

This issue features articles on two College of Agriculture alumni who have become leaders in Kentucky's economy. The successful careers of Harold Workman and Lynwood Schrader and the substantial contributions they have made to their communities and professions illustrate one of the ways our College supports the economy of the commonwealth.

As a land grant college, our contributions have always extended beyond on-campus education to include research and Extension programs. Through those programs, we are expanding our statewide role in community and economic development. At both the local and state level, our agents and faculty are facilitating a remarkable array of projects in community planning, business expansion and retention, agricultural entrepreneurship, and commercialization of technology.

Our fourth Cooperative Extension program area, community and economic development, has received new emphasis under the leadership of Associate Dean Larry Turner and Assistant Director Rick Maurer. Some counties are beginning to hire specialized agents for community resource development. At the same time, we are making and implementing plans to provide greater support to all agents as they pursue programs related to local economic development. One of the ways we will do this is through the newly created Department of Community and Leadership Development, which you will read more about in the next issue of the magazine.
Through innovation in education, service, and research, our land grant colleges can and should be a powerful driving force for economic progress in Kentucky.

M. Scott Smith
Dean, College of Agriculture

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