Our People
Agenbroad, Ariel
Area Extension Educator, Community Food Systems and Small Farms
Ariel leads and facilitates collaborative, multidisciplinary and multifaceted applied research and education in community food systems and small farms for a six-county area which includes Payette, Gem, Canyon, Ada, Owyhee and Elmore.
Allen, Richard
Professor, Water Resources Engineering
Allen specializes in evapotranspiration and hydrologic systems. His research team is the developer of the Landsat satellite-based METRIC process that received the “Innovations in American Governance Award” in 2010 by Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government.
Amende, Jackie
Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences
Jackie Amende, an Extension educator, specializes in family and consumer sciences for Canyon County. She is a registered dietitian nutritionist focusing on nutrition and health programming.
Amy, Rhonda
Office Manager
Rhonda maintains the office and the UI Extension, Benewah County website.
Ayers, Wayne
Baker, Sarah
Extension Educator
I provide programming focusing on livestock, range management and 4-H youth development. I conduct educational beef cutting demonstrations that focus on end-product quality, and collect carcass data for numerous fairs.
Balderrama, Teresa
4-H Program Coordinator
Teresa provides leadership for various aspects of day-to-day 4-H operations in Kootenai County, including enrollment, volunteer training, dog program and a variety of local educational events.
Barlow, Mashelle
4-H Program Coordinator
Mashelle’s mission is to motivate, involve and encourage 4-H youth and adults so they can build teamwork, self-confidence and succeed in ventures within the 4-H program. Mashelle graduated from cosmetology school and worked in the field for numerous years before earning an associate’s degree from the College of Southern Idaho, followed by a bachelor’s in human resource development from Idaho State University.
Bass, Phil
Assistant Professor - Meat Science
Phil is an assistant professor in the Animal and Veterinary Sciences Department where he will teach classes, and conduct applied research in meat quality with an emphasis in beef. Phil will use his industry experience to teach and advise students and others involved in the Idaho and Pacific Northwest meat production and processing community.
Baumgartner, Robin
Science Programs Coordinator, 4-H Youth Development
Ms. Baumgartner currently serves as the Affiliate Partner for FIRST LEGO League Jr., FIRST LEGO League and FIRST Tech Challenge programs in Idaho.
Becker, Hydee
Director of Dietetics, Clinical Assistant Professor
Directs the nationally accredited dietetics program, leads development efforts of the dietetics program, recruits and advises dietetics students, and teaches food and nutrition courses.
Bell, Susan
Extension Educator, Horticulture and Ada County Chair
Susan is a leader in consumer and commercial horticultural education and provides practical educational programming for Ada County (Boise) and surrounding counties. Susan collaborates with Extension faculty in southern Idaho and eastern Oregon, along with state and county agencies, city departments, and private businesses and civic groups to deliver programming. She directs a variety of Idaho Master Gardener programs and trains and supervises 100 volunteers annually.
Bohach, Carolyn Hovde
University Distinguished Professor
Hovde Bohach’s area of expertise is infectious disease with emphasis on the foodborne pathogen E. coli O157:H7. Primary interests are in the relationship of this human pathogen with healthy cattle.
Bowen, Hadley
Bregante, Erryn
Brooks, Erin
Associate Professor, Agricultural Engineer
Erin is an agricultural engineer by training and is a licensed professional engineer in civil engineering in the state of Idaho. His research and teaching focuses on landscape hydrology, erosion, water quality, nutrient transport and cycling in forested and agroecosystems.
Brumbaugh, Gordon
Director and Veterinary Scientist
Brumbaugh’s teaching experience includes large animal internal medicine, respiratory physiology, veterinary pharmacology and veterinary clinical pharmacology. He advocates for proper application of evidence-based medicine because it provides a means to incorporate critical, analytical evaluation of results of valid research into clinical decisions.
Buck, Julie
Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences
Julie's programming areas include health, nutrition, food safety, 4-H youth development and Bingham county chair. Julie is a registered dietitian nutritionist and worked as a nutrition faculty member at Brigham Young University Idaho prior to her work with University of Idaho.
Burt, Marcia
Bywater, Jeni
4-H Program Coordinator
Jeni grew up on a farm in Minidoka County. She was very active in 4-H, taking on all sorts of projects, with her favorite being sheep. After many years of picking rock and thinning sugarbeets, she attended Boise State University’s Technical School in Business and Office Education. Jeni was ecstatic to be hired as Minidoka County’s 4-H program coordinator in 1993 and continues to “Make the Best Better."
Carleton, Kara
Idaho Master Gardener Program Coordinator
Kara Carleton joined the Idaho Master Gardener Program in 2013. As program coordinator, she empowers a team of 60+ volunteers to provide educational outreach and research-based solutions that address a variety of home horticultural, lawn and garden challenges facing local citizens. Carleton fosters a culture that supports the “Helping People Grow” mission. She has diverse experience in the fields of nonprofit administration, green design, horticulture and gardening.
Carrillo, Martha
Responsibilities: Weed management, plant sampling, plant assessments, planting, harvest operations, post harvest processing, seed preparation.
Case, Tom
Inorganic Group Leader
Group leader for Inorganic Laboratory and Soil Testing Facility. Responsible for sample analysis and direct supervision of a team of analytical scientists and laboratory technicians involved in testing of soils, waters and biological tissues. Responsible for work flow scheduling, quality control oversight, method development, instrument maintenance, report writing, training and client support. Instrumentation includes FIA, AA, ICP, ICP/MS, TOC/TN, CVAFS, CNS and IC. Reviews and approves SOPs relating to inorganic procedures and general laboratory operations. Maintains QA/QC protocols on the soil tests conducted in the laboratory.
Church, James
Extension Educator, Idaho County
Jim Church provides educational programs for commercial livestock producers in UI Extension’s northern district. Specialties include beef cattle production, marketing and management. Jim also manages the 4-H animal science program in Idaho County.
Coburn, Sally
Codr, Shana
4-H Event Coordinator/Office Manager
Shana Codr is responsible for the management and logistical coordination of all 4-H statewide and national events. She also provides for the financial management and accountability of the revenue and gift accounts as well as the management and facilitation of all 4-H college scholarships.
Connors, James
Department Chair and Professor
Jim Connors serves as the chair of the Department of Agricultural and Extension Education (AEE) in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. Connors formerly served as an AEE assistant professor from 1996-2000. In 2000, he became a member of the faculty in the Department of Human & Community Resource Development at Ohio State University before returning to Idaho.
Cook, Nadine
4-H Program Assistant
Coordinating and facilitating the 4-H Youth Development program in Elmore County. Helping our youth and leaders, achieve greatness through education, service and activities in the community.
Crump, Alex
Research Specialist
I support ongoing research efforts, with a primary focus on soil and environmental inorganic chemistry; provide analytical assistance to collaborators; support graduate students; laboratory and field studies.
Cummins, Heather
Dalton, Joseph
Professor
Dalton’s research studies are focused on increasing the efficiency of artificial insemination in dairy cattle, including heat detection accuracy, synchronization programs and AI technician proficiency. A current project is focused on heat detection accuracy, with 15 Idaho dairies as collaborators.
Dandurand, Louise-Marie
Research Associate Professor
- Nematology: Globodera pallida biology, population genetics and control
David, Kirk
David, Madeline
Davis, Jim
Principal Research Specialist
Jim, a native of northern Idaho, has worked with canola, rapeseed and mustard at the University of Idaho for 30 years. Jim was a plant disease diagnostician at Utah State University, worked with alfalfa at the University of Wisconsin and barley, potatoes and onions for a short time at Washington State University. Jim manages the canola, rapeseed and mustard program's Pacific Northwest variety testing project and other field trials.
de Haro-Martí, Mario
Extension Educator
Mario works helping Idaho producers to manage and reduce the environmental impact of their livestock and farming operations while increasing their productivity, sustainability and workforce education.
DePhelps, Colette
Area Extension Educator, Community Food Systems
DePhelps’ specializes in community food systems; small farms; organizational development, strategic planning and facilitation. She advocates for and uses community-based, participatory approaches to education and research to develop timely, relevant and impactful programs.
Detjens, Alison
Instructor
Alison’s interest is in promoting and teaching sustainability in agriculture using a systems thinking lens. Alison’s work centers around teaching critical thinking skills needed to help build a sustainable future.
DeWitt, Amy
Dobre, Mariana
Research Scientist
I have broad interests in hydrology and water resources. I strive to better understand how human and natural disturbances of the environment alter both the availability and the quality of water resources.
Dodds, Bebe
Dolecheck, Suzann
Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
Suzann provides leadership and supervision for University of Idaho Extension 4-H Youth Development in Twin Falls County. She collaborates with regional university faculty and community partners to design, implement and evaluate multi-county programming that promotes science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Doumit, Stacey
Senior Instructor
Doumit’s equine course provides an understanding of science and production as it relates to the care and management of the horse, including hands-on experience for students in equine management practices.
Duellman, Kasia
Assistant Professor, Extension Seed Potato Specialist
Duellman’s research focuses on all aspects of seed potato production, with the overall goal of improving quality. Specific emphasis is on pathogens important to seed potato production and seed health and to seed-related aspects of commercial potato production. Her extension program focuses on providing relevant, timely, science-based, non-biased information to growers and the industry.
Durrin, Jenny
Director, Seed Potato Germplasm Program
Durrin’s experience includes plant tissue culture, plant virology and nematology. She has worked with potatoes in a laboratory and greenhouse setting for the past decade. In her current position as director of the Nuclear Seed Potato Program, she maintains tissue culture of over 300 potato varieties including public, private and research lines. She strives to provide seed potato growers and researchers with quality pre-nuclear seed they can rely on.
Ekins, Jim
Area Water Educator
Jim has a natural resource degree from Western Carolina University and a master's in natural resources planning from University of Oregon. He worked in three national parks, on a research base in Antarctica and in wetland restoration for watershed councils in Oregon and Idaho. He's an avid canoeist, skier and runner.
Ellis, Lance
Extension Educator
Lance specializes in home and commercial horticulture, small acreage farming, general agriculture and poultry. He teaches agriculture classes in both English and Spanish related to grain, forage and livestock.
Ellison, Melinda
Assistant Professor, Range Livestock Research
Ellison is located at the Nancy M. Cummings Research, Extension and Education Center and her research focuses primarily on the effects of grazing livestock on wildlife and range.
England, James
Professor
England teaches beef cattle production medicine and gives lectures to ranchers statewide on vaccination programs, calving and ranch management. He also serves as the veterinarian for the Nancy M. Cummings Research, Extension and Education Center.
Ensafi, Pooria
Doctoral Student
Responsibilities: Collection of and characterizing nematodes in Southern and Eastern Idaho.
Erickson, Luke
Personal Finance Specialist and Associate Professor
My interests include personal finance, with an emphasis on youth education. Areas of expertise include credit building, credit scores, investing for retirement, withdrawal strategies, financial goal setting and emergency preparedness. I also have interests in instructional design strategies and instruction through serious games.
Ewers, Timothy G.
Extension 4-H Youth Development Specialist
Science, technology and aerospace.
Falk, Jeremy
Associate Professor
Jeremy Falk completed his Ph.D. at Ohio State University, where he taught the FFA/SAE course and assisted with the teaching methods course. He taught secondary agriculture classes for four years at Federal Hocking High School in southeastern Ohio. Falk has served as a superintendent for the sheep barn at the Ohio State Fair and he enjoys raising club lambs with his family.
Findlay, Reed
Extension Educator, Crops and Horticulture
Reed Findlay graduated from Brigham Young University with a master’s degree in agronomy in 1993. He began his career as an agricultural Extension educator with Montana State University working out of Rosebud and Treasure counties. He currently serves with the University of Idaho as a crops and horticulture Extension educator and county chair in Bannock and Bingham counties.
Finkelnburg, Douglas
Area Extension Educator, Cropping Systems
Finkelnburg supports dryland cropping systems extension and outreach activities throughout northern Idaho. He supports collaborative approaches to deliver unbiased university driven research to agricultural producers and agricultural industry partners to solve ongoing production challenges.
Fisher, Heather
Administrative Coordinator
Heather holds a bachelor's in psychology with a second major in women’s studies. She has a great love for gardening and small farms, and studied soil science at the graduate level at Washington State University. She is also a licensed massage therapist in both Washington and Idaho.
Foist, Laura
Extension Educator, Family & Consumer Sciences and Eat Smart Idaho Administrator
Laura has a background in food and nutrition. She specializes in helping people learn how to eat healthy and safe. She also administers the Eat Smart Idaho program in the Eastern Idaho District. Eat Smart Idaho helps low income families learn techniques for buying, preparing and eating healthy foods on a limited budget.
Fornshell, Gary
Extension Educator, Aquaculture
Gary has formed close ties with the aquaculture industry and others involved with aquaculture to be able to develop and implement an aquaculture program. The program addresses water quality and quantity, feeds and nutrition, seafood education and aquatic animal health. He works closely with the outside agencies, UI Extension and research faculty and the aquaculture industry, which is concentrated in Twin Falls, Jerome and Gooding counties. The educational programs he teaches to youth take place at Natural Resources Camp, and are related to aquaculture to include water quality, aquatic ecology and fish biology.
Fu, Daolin
Assistant Professor
Fu’s teaching includes botany; crop genetics and breeding; and plant science seminars. Fu has been working in wheat molecular genetics involving germplasm innovation, genetic transformation, map-based gene cloning, fungal disease resistance and male sterility.
Funkhouser, Connie
4-H Program Assistant
Funkhouser grew up in Camas County. She is a proud Camas County Musher and attends every school home game unless it conflicts with grandchildren events. She has been with UI Extension, Camas County since March 1985. She loves working with youth and volunteer leaders and watching them grow and learn in the 4-H program.
Gardiner, Kali
Eat Smart Idaho Program Coordinator
Kali Gardiner, RDN, LD is the Northern District Eat Smart Idaho Program Coordinator. She oversees day to day operations, including monitoring program delivery and data collection compliance, supervision and training of Eat Smart Idaho staff and assisting to build and enrich partnerships with agencies. Kali received her B.S. in Food & Nutrition: Dietetics from the University of Idaho, and is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. She has been with the University of Idaho since 1997. Area counties: Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Clearwater, Idaho, Kootenai, Latah, Lewis, Nez Perce and Shoshone
Gerber, Linda
Outreach to Military Kids Coordinator
Military Kids and Speak Out for Military Kids.
Ghimire, Nav
Associate Director of UI Extension
Nav’s experience includes impact evaluation, program design, implementation and adult education. His focus is building evaluation capacity of Extension educators and increase their ability to document program impacts that meet the needs of local, state and federal stakeholders.
Gillespie, Donna
Regional Youth Development Educator
Gillespie provides statewide leadership in 4-H citizenship and civic education, personal development and leadership. Including programs: Idaho’s 4-H State Teen Association Convention, 4-H Know Your Government and Idaho 4-H Ambassador. She partners with 4-H professionals in youth development programming throughout central Idaho.
Glaze, Benton
Beef Extension Specialist and Associate Professor
Glaze coordinates beef extension programming throughout the state and serving as a resource for stakeholders like beef producers, allied industries, veterinarians, extension educators and the general public. His extension program focuses on breeding and genetics, beef quality assurance (BQA), general management and reproduction.
Golden, Lauren
Extension Educator
I specialize in sustainable farming, soils and small farms. This includes research and outreach in optimal cover crop management in Idaho.
Hall, John
Superintendent, Nancy M. Cummings Research, Extension and Education Center
Hall serves as the superintendent of the Nancy M. Cummings Research, Extension and Education Center, which functions as the University of Idaho’s primary cow/calf and forage research center. His program conducts applied research to enhance food production and sustainability of beef production operations.
Hamilton, Melissa
Extension Educator, Community Development and Agriculture
Melissa Hamilton is a community development, ag/horticulture Extension educator in Valley County. Melissa's multi-county work is focused on rural regional planning, multi-modal transportation systems, asset/value based development, meeting facilitation and community food systems. Melissa holds a master's degree in bioregional planning and community design from the University of Idaho and a bachelor's degree in biology from University of South Carolina.
Hardy, Ronald
Director, Aquaculture Research Institute and Professor
Hardy is an expert in animal nutrition, specifically fish nutrition and serves as the director of the Aquaculture Research Institute. He oversees the activities of 40 scientists and staff, with most supported by research grants, for which he is responsible.
Hart, Brian
Organic Group Leader
Group Leader for organic analyses and regulated scientific studies. Responsible for analysis and the general and direct supervision of a team of analytical scientists and laboratory technicians performing organic analytical chemistry. Testing includes pesticides, herbicides and other agricultural, industrial and naturally occurring compounds and substances in agricultural, biological and environmental samples, including plant and animal tissues, waters and soils, using gas and liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry and other methods as required. Responsible for work flow scheduling, quality control oversight, method development, instrument maintenance, report writing and training, as well as general group management tasks. Responsible for Group adherence to applicable testing guidelines. Reviews and approves SOPs relating to organic procedures and general laboratory operations. Provides expertise for the laboratory’s computer network and Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
Hatzenbuehler, Patrick
Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist
Patrick performs evidence-based research and extension work on agricultural commodity markets with a focus on market structure and conditions for crops grown in Idaho.
Heckman, Susie
4-H Coordinator
Susie Heckman provides the organizational framework for the UI Extension, 4-H Youth Development program in Idaho County by coordinating local 4-H activities, organizing and conducting leader training classes, working with adult volunteer leaders and youth members and providing educational program resources.
Heimgartner, Marvin
Senior Instructor
Heimgartner teaches courses in agricultural mechanics and skills such as beginning welding, shop practices and advanced welding. Students mastering the theoretical and technical knowledge as well as the tactile or motor skill.
Heinse, Robert
Associate Professor
Soil and environmental physics with an emphasis on hydraulic properties of soils and porous media as well as their characterization using near-surface geophysics.
Henderson, Paige
Administrative Coordinator
Paige provides office management and oversees day-to-day operations and budget monitoring. She also assists in the development of University of Idaho educational program resources, marketing, registration, coordination and set-up of workshops and seminars.
Henderson, Bracken
Extension Educator — Horticulture, Agriculture, 4-H
Mr. Henderson grew up in Franklin County. For 12 years he worked with the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food and conservation districts to implement conservation programs in northern Utah. A family owned commercial nursery business and local experience with landscaping species and practices give a broad knowledge base to serve Franklin County.
Ho Kim, Jang
Assistant Professor, Extension Food Safety Specialist
Jang is an experienced food scientist. He provides evidence-based educational information related to value-added processing and consumer food safety on home food preservation, sanitation, food handling, food recalls and warnings.
Hoffman, Katie
Extension Educator — Family and Consumer Sciences
Katie was born and raised in the Lemhi Valley and has been working with youth and families since 2008 as a family and consumer sciences Extension educator in the Lemhi County's UI Extension office.
Hong, Zonglie
Associate Professor
He teaches general biochemistry and plant biochemistry courses. His research covers areas of biochemistry, cell biology, genetics and genomics of plants, with special interests in cell wall biosynthesis, flower and seed development, and biological nitrogen fixation.
Howell, Michael
Northern District Director
Mike provides leadership for the University of Idaho Extension programs in the northern district. In that role he provides leadership and administrative function for hiring and supervision of Extension educators, budget and evaluation, promotion and tenure and building relationships with stakeholders and other partners in the ten county region.
Humpherys, Dave
Weed Program Assistant
Under the supervision of the weed and pest director, Dave has been working on noxious weed control for the past 15 years. In the weed department, we work with multiple state and federal agencies and local working groups to implement the noxious weed programs and projects. In the weed department, we have multiple projects such as noxious weed biocontrol, rancher’s cooperative projects, spray days and South Fork cooperative weed management. We are active with the state and southwest weed control associations.
Mir was the president of the state weed control association and Dave chairs the South Fork cooperative weed management project. Mir wrote and received a grant to obtain state-of-the art noxious weed storage facilities.
Hung, Hao-Che
M.S. Animal Science specializing in ruminant nutrition and health
My program focus is research on dairy cow nutrition, the topic for the thesis is the effect of betaine supplementation on total tract digestibility, rumen fermentation measures and production performance.
My major professor is Pedram Rezamand, Ph.D.
- Veterinary Medicine Program, National Chiayi University, Taiwan
Hunt, Carl
Professor Emeritus
As a researcher and educator, Hunt was engaged in a broad spectrum of activities that involved applied aspects of ruminant nutrition, with particular emphasis on beef cattle.
Hutchings , Becky
Extension Educator — Family & Consumer Sciences and 4-H Youth Development
Major responsibilities include nutrition, health, food safety, volunteer development and 4-H youth development educational programming. This includes assessment and development of programs within Minidoka County and southern district.
Hutchinson, Pamela J.S.
Associate Professor, Potato Cropping Systems Weed Scientist
Premier Potato Cropping Systems Weed Management Program. Increased database of hairy nightshade biology in potato cropping systems. Hairy nightshade control with targeted tank mixtures. Potato variety tolerance to new potato herbicides. Effect of glyphosate carryover in tubers of multiple potato varieties. New information on herbicide management of the Pale Cyst Nematode trap crop Solanum sisymbriifolium.
Jackson, Chad A.
Operations Manager, Aberdeen Research and Extension Center
Oversees the daily operations of the Aberdeen Research and Extension Center.
Jayo, Cammie
Eat Smart Idaho Program Coordinator
Cammie coordinates the Eat Smart Idaho program in the southern district counties of Butte, Cassia, Custer, Gooding, Jerome, Lemhi, Lincoln, Minidoka and Twin Falls. She is responsible for recruiting, hiring, training and supervising nutrition advisors, and is the liaison between outside agencies and various University of Idaho departments.
Jeffries, Erika (Thiel)
IT and Curriculum Specialist
Erika has a robust youth development career. She directs all things technology for Idaho's 4-H including 4-H Online and the 4-H website. She oversees all 4-H curriculum She supports teen leadership programming, is a trained art educator, former VP of marketing and has graphic design experience.
Jensen, Jennifer
Extension Educator — Horticulture and Small Acreage Farms
Jensen’s teaching experience includes Extension classes and workshops for adults and children in horticulture and small acreage farm production. She serves the citizens of Bonner County with one-on-one consultations for garden and vegetable production matters.
Jensen, Kirstin
Extension Educator, Health & Fitness/Nutrition, Associate Professor
Kirstin has served as an Extension educator in Idaho County since 2008 with an emphasis in family and consumer sciences. She offers programming in health, nutrition and fitness to all community members, schools and businesses.
Jensen, K. Scott
Extension Educator, County Chair
Scott conducts applied research and extension programs in beef cattle, range and pasture management. He co-coordinates the Idaho Beef Quality Assurance program and conducts the longstanding Lost Rivers Grazing Academy. He provides BQA, AI, milker and calving schools in Spanish.
Johnson, Carrie
Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
Carrie Johnson previously served as the 4-H Program Coordinator for Gem and Boise Counties, the Annie's Project Coordinator and the 4-H Fair Secretary in Gem/Boise County. As a nine-year member of 4-H, Johnson was inspired to go to the University of Idaho to study Animal Science.
Johnson, Shelly
Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences
Shelly specializes in nutrition, health promotion and wellness programs. She is known for her work in obesity prevention, senior nutrition, diabetes management and nutrition education for high-risk, low-income families.
Johnson-Maynard, Jodi
Department Head and Professor
Jodi’s research is focused on climate change/variability and sustainable agriculture and the impacts of management on soil health.
Jones, Linda
Technical Aide II
Isolation and culturing plant pathogens, analyzing seed phosphorus data, data compilation, operating FOSS Near Infrared spectrophotometer, performing beta glucan testing, participating in planting and harvest operations.
Joyner, Helen
Assistant Professor
Joyner’s courses focus on practical application of food science concepts, critical thinking and problem-solving. Topics covered include engineering and quality management principles that are used in the food industry as well as sensory aspects of dairy products. She uses multiple active learning strategies in all courses to promote improved depth of learning and long-term retention.
Kahl, Kendall
Research Specialist
Kahl manages the Soil and Water Resources Lab where much of the research is focused around carbon and nitrogen cycling, earthworm ecology and soil health monitoring in regional conservation agriculture soils and native ecosystems.
Kelley, Jason
Assistant Professor
I research evapotranspiration, precision agriculture technology and irrigation, and fundamental physics. I enjoy working with students and collaborating with other scientists and engineers to improve agriculture's economic and environmental sustainability.
Kinder, Cindy
Extension Educator
Kinder grew up on a commercial cattle ranch and feedlot and raised registered Black Angus cattle for her 4-H and FFA projects. She was and is very active in 4-H, FFA and National Jr. Angus Associations as a member and now as a volunteer. Kinder loves to provide opportunities to youth and families learning about their animal projects, particularly with feeding, giving shots and quality assurance. She also likes to have youth discover things, which is why she created animal science experiments.
Konetchy, Denise
Assistant Professor, Small Ruminant Medicine
Owner and clinical practitioner of a rural mixed animal veterinary practice. The practice emphasized strategies, of preventative medicine, herd health and client education. In addition I was a temporary instructor at the University of Idaho.
Kruger, Kevin
Scientific Aid II
I maintain the lab and it's equipment. We research solid-liquid separation, nutrient content and best practices of dairy production.
Kumar, Vikas
Assistant Professor - Research (Fish Nutrition and Nutrigenomics)
Kumar’s research interest revolves around aquaculture (marine and freshwater); nutrition, physiology and genomics of aquatic animals. Main aim of his research is to develop nutritionally balanced, environmentally sound and cost-effective seafood production.
Lancaster, Jamie
4-H Program Coordinator
Lancaster grew up in Jerome, with horses and registered Hereford and Angus cattle. She was very active in 4-H, taking beef, dairy and horse projects, as well as sewing, Dutch oven and KYG projects. She was also very active in the Idaho Junior Hereford Association and other state horse organizations. Lancaster graduated from Utah State University and is excited to come back to the 4-H program. She loves helping members find opportunities to become involved and gain new skills.
Leblanc, Luc
Curator and manager of the William F. Barr Entomological Museum
Luc Leblanc has many years of experience in the fields of insect taxonomy (especially Tephritidae and Ichneumonidae) and managing insect collections. He also lived and worked many years abroad, implementing plant protection-related projects in Africa (1989-1994) and the South Pacific Islands (1994-2002).
Lee, Katherine
Assistant Professor
Katherine is an applied natural resource and environmental economist with a background in natural science. Her research is highly interdisciplinary, using economic and ecological concepts in mathematical models and empirical analyses in order to explore feedbacks between human and natural systems.
Lewin, Paul
Extension Specialist, Associate Professor; Director of Rural Studies Program
Lewis, Edwin
Department Head and Professor, Co-Director of Center for Health in the Human Ecosystem
Liang, Xi
Assistant Professor, Cropping Systems Agronomy
Xi Liang is leading a Cropping Systems Agronomy program with focuses on crop physiology in response to abiotic and biotic stresses, irrigation management and alternative crop agronomy (e.g., cover crops and quinoa).
Lide, Chen
Associate Professor, Waste Management Engineer
Chen’s research and extension focus on value-added products from waste, mitigation of environmental impacts caused by waste, and dissemination of science-based information to help stakeholders make informed decisions, leading to positive changes.
Lindstrom, James
4-H Youth Development Director
Currently the program director for the University of Idaho Extension 4-H Youth Development program, Lindstrom brings over thirty-five years of professional experience to this role. He has engaged in 4-H program development in Montana, Arizona, Washington and now Idaho. Lindstrom currently represents the United States on the Global 4-H Network Board.
Lojewski, Jeffrey
Research Specialist
I am a research assistant for Erik Wenninger at the Kimberly Research and Extension Center. My work is broadly focused on the behavior and ecology of the potato psyllid, an important disease vector in potato crops.
Lucas, Jane
Postdoctoral Associate
I am exploring the factors that influence the invertebrate and microbial communities within the leaf litter and soil in agricultural and tropical ecosystems.
Luckhart, Shirley
Professor, Co-Director of Center for Health in the Human Ecosystem
Luckhart is an expert in arthropod-borne infectious diseases. Her major focus is malaria, including innate immunity in the mosquito and mammalian host and interventions to block both disease and transmission.
Luna, Rebecca
Eat Smart Idaho Nutrition Advisor
Rebecca is a bilingual nutrition advisor, she teaches classes for limited income families and youth. You can find her teaching at Women, Infants and Children Program clinics, Headstart centers, Working Solutions, food pantries, elementary schools and summer feeding programs. Classes include information on nutrition, physical activity, food safety, resource management and tips for parents feeding young children.
Lynn, Betsy
Program Assistant
Betsy serves as the UI Extension program assistant in providing office support to the Extension educator and 4-H program assistant. Her focus is to help with the growth and expansion of programs offered.
Lyons, Alana
Office Manager
Alana Lyons is the friendly voice on the phone or the smiling face that you see if you call or drop by the UI Extension office in Idaho County. Alana provides assistance with 4-H program materials for clubs, helps out at various 4-H events and activities, coordinates the publishing of all Extension newsletters and helps direct client calls and inquiries.
Mahler, Robert
Professor — Soil, Water and Environmental Sciences
Robert conducts research on water quality and water quantity water resource issues in Idaho. In addition to public perceptions, priorities and actions taken to address water resource issues in the Pacific Northwest.
Manker, Gretchen
Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences
Gretchen 's programming areas include health and nutrition, food safety, financial management and 4-H youth development. Gretchen served as a community nutrition advisor for Eat Smart Idaho (SNAP-Ed and Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program) for many years. She is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and enjoys teaching.
Mayes, Iris
Extension Educator, Horticulture & Small Farms
Iris leads community-level Extension efforts in small farms and horticulture for Latah County.
McGeehan, Steven
Laboratory Director
Supervises chemists, laboratory technicians and support personnel performing analyses for environmental, soil, water, plant and veterinary toxicology samples. Schedules work flow and instrument maintenance, provides quality control oversight and staff training as well as general group management tasks. Reviews all work performed in the analytical laboratory for validity according to quality control defined guidelines. Reviews and approves standard operating procedures; supervises method development and modifications to procedures as improvements become necessary. Writes grant proposals and conducts research on projects that are pertinent to the laboratory’s mission. Serves as laboratory research director for pesticide residue regulatory studies under CFR 40 Section 160. Provides ISO 17025 expertise for continued laboratory compliance with quality assurance programs including accreditation by the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians.
McGuire, Mark
University Distinguished Professor, Associate Dean of Research & Director of Idaho Agricultural Experiment Station
Mills, Rebecca
Extension Educator, Livestock and 4-H Youth Development
Rebecca brings a wealth of experience as an Extension educator. She has technical training in animal science and work experience in 4-H Youth Development, family and consumer sciences and food systems.
Minnich, Scott
Associate Professor
My research is centered on bacterial pathogenesis of Yersinia enterocolitica and Y. pestis, etiologic agents of yersiniosis and bubonic plague respectively. The hallmark of these infectious agents is their ability to suppress the innate immune response of mammalian hosts.
Moller, Greg
Professor
Our research group conducts translational, trans-disciplinary research to advance the goals of sustainability by developing new knowledge and innovations in the area of sustainable solutions for water resources. We have had considerable impact on individuals, communities and environmental quality in a regional, national and international context.
Momont, Patrick
Southern District Director
Pat’s experience includes serving as a state beef Extension specialist, conducting joint research and extension projects involving cow nutrition, grazing behavior, retained ownership and alternative forages. For the last 17 years he has provided leadership for southwestern and south-central district Extension programs; hiring and supervising county Extension educators, building relationships with stakeholders and serving as the Caldwell Complex superintendent.
Morra, Matthew
Professor, Soil Biochemistry
My research program is focused on the fate and transport of synthetic and natural organics in soil and water systems, with a specific interest in natural pesticides.
Morrisroe-Aman, Bridget
Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences
Ms. Morrisroe-Aman is a family and consumer sciences (FCS) assistant professor, in Ada County, focused on nutrition, health and food safety. She leads the district Diabetes Prevention Program and co-leads the district Master Food Safety Advisor volunteer programs.
Murdoch, Brenda
Assistant Professor
Murdoch’s research focuses on characterizing the relationship between genetic variation in mammals and traits which are valued and important to society. She exploits a number of molecular and genetic tools to further improve our understanding of how these variations affect biological processes of both undesirable and desirable phenotypic traits.
Murdoch, Gordon
Professor
Murdoch primarily assesses and evaluates the physiological status of striated muscle in the context of nutritional changes, growth promoters and genetic variation using advanced high-throughput molecular tools such as gene expression analyses (qRT-PCR), transcriptome analyses and proteomic, enzymatic and biochemical assays.
Nagy, Kyle
Superintendent & Orchard Operations Manager
Kyle Nagy is responsible for the operations at Sandpoint Organic Agriculture Center. The center includes a USDA Certified Organic orchard that specializes in antique and heirloom fruit varieties.
Nash, Scott
Regional Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
Scott joined the University of Idaho in 1995. He is a regional youth development educator providing 4-H leadership in 14 eastern Idaho counties as well as statewide leadership in 4-H animal science. He was the Extension educator in Bingham and Bannock counties prior to his regional appointment. He has lived in Pocatello, Idaho for 22 years.
Neibling, Howard
Associate Professor, Extension Specialist — Water Management Engineer
Neibling serves as the state irrigation specialist for University of Idaho Extension. In this role, he delivers educational programs, develops extension materials, works with county faculty and participates in farm visits.
O'Leary, Marilyn
Office Secretary
Marilyn keeps things moving at the UI Extension, Payette County office. You will find her working on 4-H member enrollments and reports, balancing the check book, paying the bills, keeping the budget on track, scheduling events and volunteers, tracking inventory and engaging in the everyday general duties that keep the office running smoothly.
Packham, Joel
Extension Educator
I teach farm and ranch financial management in connection with estate/succession planning. I also teach farm production and financial record management using Excel spreadsheets and QuickBooks. Cover crops are important to the Magic Valley, and I do research, teach and advise the use of grazing cover crops for soil management. 4-H livestock is an area of expertise.
Painter, Kate
Extension Educator — Agriculture, Assistant Professor
Kate provides educational programming in cereal and forage production, livestock production, horticulture and small farm production. She also has her own small sheep fiber business and offers training for the Idaho Master Gardener program.
Parrott, Samantha
Director of Development
Samantha works to secure major gifts for the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences initiatives.
Paszczynski, Andrzej J.
Professor Emeritus
Paszczynski use an emerging proteomic approaches to discern and verify the unique proteins (biomarkers) that infer directly or indirectly the functional aspects of microbial tolerance of the extreme environmental conditions. Protecting space from bacteria and Lignin degradation: microorganisms, enzymes involved, genomes analysis and evolution
Petty, Barbara
Associate Dean and Director of UI Extension
Barbara’s experience includes serving as an Extension educator in Bonneville County for 11 years with an emphasis in family and consumer sciences. She offered programming in family development and financial literacy. For four years Barbara provided leadership for UI Extension programs in 16 counties as the eastern district director. In 2014 she was selected to be the interim UI Extension director and became the associate dean/director of UI Extension in 2016.
Peutz, Joey
Extension Educator
Joey Peutz serves as the county chair as she develops, teaches and evaluates nutrition and food safety programs for adults and children in Payette County and a nine-county district.
Popova, Inna
Analytical Instrumentation Manager
Popova oversees mass spectroscopy and chromatography equipment and actively participates in research projects that address the fate of chemicals in the environment and the development of a new generation of pesticides.
Price, William
Director of Statistical Programs
Statistical consultation for Ag science researchers.
Pruitt, Sheila
Receptionist
Sheila is the primary receptionist and responsible for putting together the Extension Connections newsletter and assists with family and consumer sciences, agriculture, 4-H and the noxious weeds secretary.
Ramsey, Mitzi
Administrative Assistant
Mitzi grew up in Minidoka County. Mitzi was raised in the accounting atmosphere and worked in an office since the age of 14. Growing up, she had never been involved in 4-H. However, she is rapidly learning the ropes with many questions along the way. She joined the UI Extension, Minidoka County office in 2010 as the administrative assistant.
Rasco, Barbara
Director, School of Food Science
Rasco’s research interests involves the development of analytical methods to predict the safety and quality of food products. A current research area utilizes non-destructive spectrophotometric (short wavelength near infrared) measurements to develop chemometric models to predict the quality and safety of food products, primarily aquatic food products.
Richel, Karen
Extension Educator - Financial Literacy
Karen specializes in basic financial education for every age and socioeconomic group by offering classes, workshops and simulations on topics ranging from budgeting to end-of-life planning. She is an accredited financial counselor and money coach, she provides free, one-on-one financial counseling and coaching sessions.
Robertson, Amy
Extension Educator — Family and Consumer Sciences & 4-H
Amy provides a variety of workshops, classes and other learning opportunities in food safety, nutrition and healthy living. She also organizes and implements 4-H youth development events for local youth.
Robison, Clarence
Research Associate/Research Support Scientist
My research include surface water quality, water use by crops/vegetation, instrumentation of non-agricultural areas collecting meteorological data Also supervise the laboratory technicians and maintain the databases and equipment.
Roe, Christina
Administrative Financial Specialist, Eat Smart Idaho
Assist the director and state coordinator for Eat Smart Idaho. Manage and project multiple budgets and personnel actions for Eat Smart Idaho throughout Idaho.
Roth, Matthew
Greenhouse Manager
Matthew has a broad range of experience including greenhouse growing and engineering, hydroponics/aquaponics and organic farming. He is dedicated to growing the highest quality pre-nuclear seed potatoes and advancing techniques for their culture. Matthew is always happy to talk about potatoes, greenhouse growing, storage and hydroponics. Give him a call if you would like to schedule a tour of the facilities.
Ruhoff, Norm
Director, Agricultural Commodity Risk Management Program; Clinical Assistant Professor
Ruth, Alaena
Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
Alaena has an extensive background in animal science, earning both of her degrees in this field. She has interests in livestock production and management as well as meat science. She enjoys teaching and speaking about STEM education and quality assurance.
Ryu, Jae Hyeon
Associate Professor
My research is on drought monitoring and forecasting, hydrological modeling, and water resources planning and management in a changing global environment associated with urbanization and climate variability. Continue in biography.
Ryu, Dojin
Professor
Research interests in my laboratory involve naturally occurring toxicants of microbial or environmental origin and the effect of various food processes on their chemistry and biological effects. An area of emphasis is chemical and toxicological fate of mycotoxins, a diverse group of secondary metabolites produced by certain fungi. Current projects include the risk assessment of ochratoxin A in the U.S. We are also developing culturally sensitive education programs for the deaf teenagers to reduce foodborne illness.
Sagers, Joseph
Extension Educator
Joseph Sagers is an Extension educator in Jefferson and Clark counties with a focus on agronomy and livestock.
Sant, M.S., R.D.N., Laura
Extension Educator — Health/Nutrition/Food Safety and 4-H
Laura is a registered dietitian nutritionist and licensed dietitian in Idaho. She provides community education to residents in Franklin County, Idaho and is nationally recognized for her work in health, nutrition and food safety.
Schnepf, Chris
Area Extension Educator, Forestry and Professor
Chris Schnepf provides a variety of workshops, short courses, field days, publications, videos and other learning opportunities on applied forest ecology and silviculture for family forest owners, loggers and professional foresters throughout the Idaho Panhandle.
Schoenfelder, Judith
Program Specialist
Military partnerships, international exchange and out-of-school partnerships.
Schroeder, Kurtis
Cropping Systems Agronomist, Assistant Professor
Schroeder’s research focuses on improving cereal-based cropping systems through a combination of crop rotation, nutrient management and agronomic inputs. A specific focus of the research is to understand and manage soil acidity, and examines strategies for management of soilborne fungal diseases. Schroeder directs the small grain and grain legume Extension variety trials for northern Idaho, providing objective variety performance and yield data for public and private materials.
Schwarting, Donna
4-H Volunteer Development Educator
Donna has experience with volunteer and project-based learning programs, grant-writing, program design, supervision of personnel, training of individuals in multiple venues and risk management. Before joining University of Idaho Extension in 2018, she served as principal at an elementary school in Emmett.
Serna, Ester
Responsibilities: Weed management, plant sampling, plant assessments, planting, harvest operations, post harvest processing, seed preparation.
Shelman, Tod
Scientific Aide II
Responsibilities: Plot herbicide treatment, weed management, barley quality data, seed preparation, data compilation, equipment operation, fabrication and maintenance.
Shelstad, Nancy
Regional 4-H Youth Development Educator
Shelstad’s areas of emphasis includes positive youth development, public speaking, youth personal financial education and new 4-H staff orientation. She also provides mentoring and leadership for 4-H professionals in southern district UI Extension counties.
Silkwood, Gail
Extension Educator
Gail provides leadership for the Benewah County 4-H, UpRiver Afterschool, youth development camps and the Idaho Master Gardeners of Benewah County. She also provides educational resources in agriculture and livestock topics.
Small, Meranda
Extension Educator
Meranda has worked with UI Extension since 2014, focusing in livestock and 4-H programming. Before that, she worked for Agri Beef Co. while completing her master's. During her schooling at UI she worked for several years as a research assistant.
Smith, Brennan
Assistant Professor
For cereals and cereal products, I have a profound interest in understanding the chemical reasons for protein functionality and have characterized and manipulated various protein sources to function in a similar manner to wheat gluten. For seafood, focused on the area of seafood chemistry and functionality to develop new ways to reduce fishery wastes and to characterize how seasonal and physiological cycles affected fish composition.
Sorensen, Terrell
Extension Educator
Cereal grains is my main focus. I deal a lot with water and water related issues. I also coordinate the 4-H activities in the county. The Farm Ranch Management Team is also a main focus of mine.
Sparks, Rose
4-H Assistant
Rose graduated from Boise State University with a teaching certificate and taught 30+ years in area schools, while owning 1,000 head of white-faced ewes and 900 head of boar goats. She also trained donkeys, mules and ponies to drive in harness. Rose teaches the 4-H enrichment activities in area elementary schools.
Spencer, Marnie R.
Eastern District Director
Marnie Spencer works as the UI Extension eastern district director, supporting Extension educators in 14 counties and Fort Hall Reservation. Previously, she worked as a family and consumer sciences and 4-H Extension educator in Bingham County. Marnie is a registered dietitian nutritionist and worked as a clinical dietitian in New Jersey prior to her work with University of Idaho.
Stokes, Brad
Extension Educator, Cropping Systems
Brad grew up in Boise, Idaho and subsequently attended the University of Idaho in 2004. He graduated with a bachelor's in plant science in 2008 and entered a graduate program in 2009. He completed his research project in entomology in 2012 and received his master's in entomology.
Strawn, Daniel
Professor, Environmental Soil Chemistry
My Environmental Soil Chemistry program is focused on gaining a better understanding of reaction processes in the environment to gain new insights into contaminant and nutrient speciation, reaction pathways, and mineralogy in soil and water systems.
Taggart, Allen
Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
I lead the 4-H Youth Development program in Ada County, build community partnerships, strengthen our volunteer base and increase funding for our programs. I work with community partners, adult volunteers and families to help more youth "make the best better."
Talcott, Patricia
Veterinary Diagnostic Toxicologist
Diagnostic Toxicologist for the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (WADDL). Evaluates, coordinates and interprets results of veterinary diagnostic toxicology samples submitted to the UI ASL. Consults with veterinarians concerning veterinary toxicology cases and diagnoses. Maintains communications with WADDL and WI personnel concerning veterinary toxicology services and cases. Conducts field investigations of animal poisonings when needed. Note: The Veterinary Diagnostic Toxicologist has responsibilities at the University of Idaho and Washington State University outside the UI ASL. The duties listed above reflect her duties only as applied to the laboratories.
Tifft, Kathee
Extension Educator, Community Development, Family and Consumer Sciences and County Chair
Toomey, Maureen
Area Youth Development Educator
Toomey is an experienced youth development leader with an unwavering commitment to Idaho families and youth. She directs the Idaho 4-H healthy living program building strong partnerships within and outside the university. Toomey has diverse experiences working with rural communities and directing outreach to Latino youth and families.
Torbert, James “Jim”
Pest Control Coordinator
Mutually, Mir and Jim work on different pest related projects and programs such as grasshoppers, Mormon crickets and mosquito abatement, to help Elmore County ranchers, farmers and citizens. Jim regularly surveys known standing water sites to monitor for mosquito larvae. These areas are treated to control mosquito larvae. He sets traps to test mosquitoes for WNV. In the early evening, he is fogging areas that experience high mosquito populations during the season. To report areas of standing water or high mosquito populations in Elmore County you can call Jim directly at 208-587-2304 or visit the Elmore county website at www.elmorecounty.org/pest to email us directly.
Trujillo-Barrera, Andres
Assistant Professor
Andres' research deals with understanding the role of risk on marketing and finance strategies in the food and agricultural industry.
Tucker, Angela
Administrative Assistant
Angela maintains numerous grants over the years and keeps all the accounts in order for family and consumer sciences, agriculture, 4-H, 4-H Friday Friends and the noxious weed department.
Tverdy, Teresa
Program Specialist
Teresa coordinates the 4-H program in the county and is responsible for recruiting, training and supervising volunteer leaders and 4-H members. She works as a member of a team to develop 4-H programming that meets the youth development needs of Twin Falls County youth and families. She serves as liaison for the 4-H program between the district director, Extension specialists and educators.
Unlu, Gulhan
Associate Professor
Ünlü is an instructor for three senior-level and a graduate-level food science courses at the University of Idaho and Washington State University. Ünlü’s research laboratory has a food microbiology/ biotechnology focus targeting main agricultural interests, commodities (dairy, potatoes, fish) and byproducts (cheese whey, potato peel waste, fish skin/bones) in ID and WA.
Vaughan, Chandra
Associate Extension Educator — 4-H Youth Development
Chandra provides leadership, instruction and support for 4-H Youth Development programs focusing on youth development, adult volunteer development, youth education program development, expanding partnerships and participation, and membership growth.
Wahl, Lori
Instructor
I teach design, apparel technology and industry-aligned courses with emphasis on applied learning through projects that simulate industry processes. I enthusiastically support undergraduate research projects and entrepreneurial endeavors.
Watson, Philip
Associate Professor
Watson is a natural resource and regional development economist whose research focuses on the role of natural resources in the economic health of communities and evidence based economic development planning.
Werlin, Jennifer
Extension Educator, Community Food Systems
Jennifer provides educational programs associated with enhancing local agriculture, community food systems and 4-H Youth Development. Her interests include healthy seasonal cooking, gardening, season extension, food security and permaculture design.
White, David
Research Specialist, Agriculture Extension
David’s research experience includes geographic determinants of evolution, bacterial components of sick building syndrome, intercellular communication, bacterial biofilms and fungal pathogens of legumes. He brings a broad scientific experience to fieldwork, assisting with data collection and proper application of herbicides and fertilizers.
Williams, Shannon
Extension Educator, Agriculture and Natural Resources
Shannon has a strong agriculture background from growing up on a small farm and being involved in a family ranch. Her degrees in animal science and human resources complement each other as she works with cattle producers, natural resource managers, 4-H members and community members. She is married, has two grown children and enjoys her job.
Willmore, Carmen
Extension Educator — Livestock and Forages
Carmen is the Extension educator in Lincoln County, located in Shoshone, ID. Her programming efforts focus on livestock and forage education for surrounding producers.
Wilson, Jim
Regional 4-H Youth Development Educator
As a member of the state 4-H Youth Development team, Jim provides leadership in program development and 4-H volunteer management for the 10 northern Idaho counties. He also provides statewide leadership for the Idaho 4-H horse and rapidly growing shooting sports programs.
Wilson, Sharla
Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
Sharla Wilson serves as the 4-H Extension educator for Kootenai County and is an assistant professor with the University of Idaho. Wilson oversees 4-H Youth Development programming in Kootenai and Shoshone counties.
Wittman, Grace
Extension Educator
I provide leadership in the areas of food safety, food preservation, nutrition and youth development. I focus primarily on food preservation classes, hand washing education and cooking skills classes.
Wolf, Kattlyn
Associate Professor
Kattlyn Wolf received her B.S. in Animal Science in 2000 and her B.S. in Vocational Agriculture in 2002 from the University of Wyoming. She was a member of the Collegiate Meat Judging Team, Sigma Alpha, Alpha Tau Alpha, Block and Bridle and Collegiate FFA and was one of two College of Agriculture Senators in the Associated Students of the University of Wyoming. She received her honorary state FFA degree from Wyoming in 2005.
Woodhall, James
Assistant Professor
James manages the Plant Clinic at Parma offering a range of diagnostic tests and advice to growers. In addition, James has a research program characterizing plant pathogens and developing new diagnostic methods for diseases across a range of crops.
Zhao, Wenguang
Senior Research Scientist
My research focus is on modeling radiation, energy balance, sensible and latent heat fluxes in SVAT system both from micrometeorological measurement and remote sensing images.
