Dr. Ronald M. Howell Jr. Appointed Associate Dean and Associate Research Director at VSU College of Agriculture

ETTRICK, Va. — Virginia State University (VSU) has appointed Dr. Ronald M. Howell Jr. as associate dean and associate research director in the College of Agriculture, effective April 25. A proud VSU alumnus, Howell brings more than 15 years of experience in agriculture, education, and government service to the role.

Dr. Ronald M. Howell

Howell previously served as the State Executive Director of the Virginia Farm Service Agency (FSA) and Senior Policy Advisor for USDA-FSA. He has a diverse background that includes production agriculture, support of small and limited-resource farmers, and leadership in urban agriculture, innovative farming practices, and local and regional food systems. In his FSA leadership role, he oversaw $300 million annually in farm loans and programs across Virginia and helped lead national efforts to expand land, capital, and market access for farmers.

Earlier in his career, Howell served as director of operations and management for the College of Agriculture at VSU and held a teaching appointment in the Department of Agriculture. He has also held leadership roles with the Virginia Secretariat of Agriculture and Forestry, USDA’s Office of the Chief Financial Officer, the Farm Service Agency, and the Agricultural Marketing Service.

Howell earned his Bachelor of Science in agriculture from VSU, his master’s degree in agricultural and extension education from Virginia Tech, and a doctorate in P-20 education and community leadership from Murray State University. His research interests include the integration of instructional technology and distance learning within agricultural education.

“I am excited about the opportunity to return to Virginia State University as associate dean and associate research director in the College of Agriculture,” Howell said.

“Right now, we are navigating challenging times in agriculture across the nation and even globally,” he added. “In these times, we must rethink traditional approaches to develop broad-based, system-oriented programs in the areas of business, climate, health, energy, and food.”

As associate dean, Howell said he plans to foster innovation and collaboration among faculty and researchers.

“Forging new directions in the development of inter- and transdisciplinary agricultural research programs—by engaging cross-disciplined faculty, research scientists, and students—helps us address local, statewide, global, and societal challenges,” Howell said. “This level of engagement contributes to an environment that both encourages and rewards innovation, flexibility, entrepreneurship, and productivity.”

He also emphasized the unique role of VSU’s land-grant mission in addressing today’s agricultural challenges.

“As a land-grant institution, Virginia State is uniquely positioned to drive innovation, strengthen rural and urban communities, and prepare the next generation of agricultural leaders,” Howell said. “I look forward to building on the college’s strong foundation and working alongside faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders to elevate the college’s research portfolio and advance our shared mission.”