College of Agriculture names Jon Ulmer interim associate dean for ag academic programs

 

The Kansas State University College of Agriculture has appointed Jon Ulmer as the interim associate dean for ag academic programs, effective Aug. 17. In this role, Ulmer will oversee undergraduate academic programs, advising initiatives, curriculum development and student success efforts across the college.

Ulmer brings an exceptional record of leadership, scholarship and dedication to student development. Most recently, he served as the assistant dean for graduate student programs, where he played a key role in launching interdisciplinary academic initiatives, enhancing student retention strategies and advancing academic facility planning. He also served as the 2023–2024 Faculty Fellow for Graduate Student Support, working to elevate the graduate student experience across the college.

“Dr. Ulmer's deep commitment to teaching, advising and program innovation makes him uniquely qualified for this leadership role," said Dan Moser, interim dean of the College of Agriculture. "His experience across multiple dimensions of academic programming and his student-centered mindset will help us continue building a strong, forward-looking educational experience for our students."

A professor in agricultural education, Ulmer has been an integral member of the department of communications and agricultural education. He teaches courses that prepare students to become high school agriculture educators, with topics ranging from agricultural mechanics to FFA leadership and the philosophy of agricultural education.

Prior to joining K-State, Ulmer served on the faculty at both Texas Tech University and the University of Missouri, contributing to research, teacher preparation and national service through board and committee leadership in the agricultural education profession.