By Blake Jackson
Lincoln University of Missouri has appointed Dr. Johnnie Westbrook as the new dean of the College of Agriculture, Environmental and Human Sciences (CAEHS). Westbrook steps into the role following Dr. Douglas LaVergne’s departure to Alabama A&M University.
Westbrook previously served as associate dean and director for the Extension Service at West Virginia State University, a role he held since 2023. His new responsibilities at Lincoln begin on August 4.
As dean, Westbrook will oversee CAEHS and the Cooperative Research & Extension Service. He will act as the college’s chief academic officer, guiding academic programs, managing resources, and leading efforts in fundraising, faculty and student recruitment, and retention.
A native of Mount Gilead, North Carolina, Westbrook’s passion for agriculture began during his high school years, where he worked on a hay farm and participated in Future Farmers of America (FFA).
Westbrook served as an officer at multiple levels and competed in several career development events including dairy, soils, landscaping, and parliamentary procedure.
Westbrook holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural education from North Carolina State University and a master’s from North Carolina A&T State University.
Westbrook earned his Ph.D. in career and technical education with a focus on agricultural and extension education from Virginia Tech in 2010.
Westbrook academic experience spans institutions such as Alcorn State University, Kentucky State University, North Carolina A&T, and Virginia State University. Westbrook has also taught agricultural courses at high schools across North Carolina.
“Dr. Westbrook’s roots in agriculture and passion for learning make him an excellent fit for Lincoln University,” said LU President John B. Moseley. “We are excited to welcome him to the Blue Tiger family and look forward to the experience and energy he brings to serve our students, support our communities and lead the future of our agriculture programs.”
“I am excited for the opportunity to provide leadership to the three mission areas of Extension, research and teaching at Lincoln University,” Westbrook says. “My passion is helping communities, faculty, farmers, students and youth thrive in a challenging environment by investing in people, programs, projects and performance.”
Photo Credit: lincoln-univsersity-missouri
Categories: Missouri, Education