Colleagues,
I am happy to announce Mary Katherine Gonder, Ph.D., has been named as head of the Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, effective Aug. 1.
She is an acclaimed researcher and educator who was previously head of the Department of Biology at Drexel University, where she established an excellent track record of collaboration and building coalitions. Her approach aligns with our land-grant mission, and her vision for the department will advance our Texas A&M AgriLife-wide dedication to serve the education, research and extension needs for Texas and the world.
The department’s faculty, staff and students are passionate about delivering sustainable solutions to a broad spectrum of complex statewide and global challenges. Dr. Gonder believes the department is “the beating heart” of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences because conservation biology links everything we do, from soil and water sciences to sustainable production practices, public health and economic vitality.
I look forward to seeing how the department’s innovations and collaborations push the bounds of conservation and natural resource stewardship and improve the quality of life for us all.
Dr. Gonder is the first permanent head of the department since it was created in 2020. I thank Dr. Kirk Winemiller for his service and leadership as interim department head during these years of transition and growth.
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Gonder into this leadership role.
Thanks and Gig ’em,
Jeffrey W. Savell
Vice Chancellor and Dean, Agriculture and Life Sciences