Rennekemp to be Next Director of Ohio State University Extension

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Roger Rennekamp, the associate dean for Outreach and Engagement at Oregon State University, has been named the next director of Ohio State University Extension.

Bruce A. McPheron, Ohio State’s vice president for agricultural administration and dean of the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, made the announcement today at the Farm Science Review, a three-day educational and trade show offered by the college that attracts about 130,000 people annually.

Rennekamp will begin his duties on Jan. 4, 2016, replacing Keith Smith who retired June 30 after 23 years in the position. Rennekamp will be the 12th leader of OSU Extension, overseeing nearly 700 employees and a $71 million budget. Extension is the outreach arm of the college.

“Roger brings a great deal of experience at all levels of the Cooperative Extension System, and is known for building collaborative relationships and partnerships,” McPheron said.

“His strong background in working across disciplines will serve Ohio State and Ohio quite well,” McPheron said. “Roger’s enthusiasm and energy will help create the Extension organization of the future.”

“I am honored to renew my relationship with one of the nation’s premier land grant universities,” said Rennekamp about his return to Ohio State. “The need for Extension is as great as any time in its hundred-year history. Extension of the next century must remain true to key principles of community engagement and responsiveness while embracing approaches and technologies that will increase its reach and impact.”

Before taking on his current role in Oregon State’s College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Rennekamp led Oregon’s 4-H Youth Development program. He served as an Extension specialist in program and staff development and as a program specialist for 4-H at the University of Kentucky. He earned his B.S from the University of Kentucky, his M.S. from Morehead State University, and his Ph.D. from Ohio State.

He and his wife Denise have two grown children.