UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Tracy Hoover, who has served as interim associate dean for undergraduate education in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences since June 2011, has been named to the post on a permanent basis.
"Tracy Hoover has done an outstanding job of guiding our Office of Undergraduate Education during a time of change and transition," said Bruce McPheron, dean of the college. "Her thoughtful and steady leadership will be invaluable as we continue to assess and strengthen our undergraduate programs and prepare global-ready graduates for the challenges and opportunities ahead."
Hoover is responsible for overseeing an academic enterprise that includes 19 majors, 24 minors, three two-year programs and two certificate programs. Including students enrolled in ag sciences programs at other Penn State campuses and in majors offered jointly with other academic colleges, the College of Agricultural Sciences serves about 3,000 undergraduates, which represents an approximate 48 percent increase over the last five years.
On July 1, a reorganization of the college's academic departments officially will take effect, reducing their number from 12 to nine. Although no immediate changes will occur in majors and minors, over time programs are expected to evolve under the new structure -- a process that Hoover will help facilitate.
Hoover joined the Penn State faculty as an associate professor of agricultural and extension education in 2001. She became head of the Department of Agricultural and Extension Education in 2004, overseeing a department with about 35 faculty and staff, more than 100 undergraduate students and 40 graduate students.
Hoover has taught undergraduate and graduate courses, advised students, and supervised interns in teacher and leadership education. Her research has focused on youth leadership development and teaching and learning.
From 1993 to 2001, Hoover was a faculty member in the Department of Agricultural Education and Communication at the University of Florida. She was an assistant professor of agricultural and extension education at Penn State from 1990 to 1992. Previously, she served as an agricultural science teacher at Big Spring High School in Newville, Pa.
Hoover has authored or co-authored nearly 40 articles in refereed academic journals, 44 refereed proceedings and presentations, and more than 25 other publications. She is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Association for Agricultural Education and the National Association of Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture.
Hoover received her bachelor's degree in animal science from Delaware Valley College. She earned her master's degree in animal science and doctorate in agricultural education in 1990, both from Penn State.