Texas

Dr. Christine Townsend has been named Texas A&M University agricultural education department head. She replaces Dr. Glen Shinn, who went on sabbatical in January.

"Dr. Townsend's academic background in leadership is precisely what we sought for this position," said Dr. Elsa Murano, vice chancellor and dean of agriculture and life sciences at Texas A&M. "Her expertise will no doubt serve agricultural education well in providing the faculty and students of that department with opportunities for excellence."

Townsend, who joined the university in 1984 as a visiting assistant professor, believes her knowledge of leadership styles and understanding of people are key in her position.

"I plan to provide the leadership needed to develop the department into learning communities and work teams to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency towards realizing our vision and mission," Townsend said.

Though her academic interest is leadership, Townsend is well-known for her teaching. Since 1992, she has received teaching awards valued at more than $22,000.

She earned a bachelor's in horticulture in 1975 and a master's in agricultural education in 1979, both from Ohio State University. Her doctorate in agricultural education was earned from Iowa State University in 1981.

Townsend began her career in the greenhouse business but taught for the first time in 1976 as a secondary school horticulture teacher. She was assistant professor of agriculture at Illinois State University before coming to Texas A&M.

Date: 6/23/05

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