Colleagues,
I am pleased that David Baltensperger, Ph.D., has agreed to serve as interim department head for the Department of Food Science and Technology. He will begin duties in mid-August with the departure of current department head, Joseph Awika, Ph.D.
Dr. Awika has accepted a position at Kansas State University as department head of grain science and industry and director of the International Grains Program Institute, and we wish him the very best in his next chapter.
Dr. Baltensperger has been a valued member of our faculty for more than 18 years, and he currently serves as department head for the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences. He brings a wealth of experience and is regarded for his commitment to research and educating the next generation. We are confident that he will provide the continuity needed during this transition period.
In the coming months, Dr. Baltensperger will work with faculty, staff and students to ensure that the department continues to move forward. We appreciate your support and cooperation as he steps into this additional role.
Please join me in extending gratitude to Dr. Baltensperger.
We will provide details soon regarding the search for a permanent department head.
Thanks, and Gig ’em,
Jeffrey W. Savell
Vice Chancellor and Dean, Agriculture and Life Sciences