Longtime New Mexico State University administrator and faculty member James D. Libbin has been selected as interim dean of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences.
“Dr. Libbin has performed admirably as the associate dean and director of academic programs in the college, and it was clear from the feedback that I received that he has strong support within the college for assuming this interim position,” said Executive Vice President and Provost Daniel J. Howard. “I look forward to working with Dr. Libbin, and everyone in the college, to further strengthen the college in the year ahead.”
Libbin has served the college as associate dean and director of academic programs since 2008. Prior to that appointment, he was a professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics and Agricultural Business at NMSU since 1979.
Libbin said he feels living in New Mexico and being associated with NMSU and the college is a great privilege. He also pointed to the outstanding leadership of current Dean Lowell Catlett, who is retiring.
“I am very honored and humbled to continue the legacy of our friend and leader, Lowell Catlett,” Libbin said. “I pledge to listen to everyone’s concerns as we move our college forward over the next year to meet the needs of all of our students and constituents.”
Libbin’s NMSU teaching, research and extension programs centered on agricultural accounting and farm and ranch business management and income tax management. Libbin holds a bachelor’s in agricultural science and a master’s in agricultural economics, both from the University of Illinois, and a Ph.D. in economics from Iowa State University.
Libbin’s position becomes effective on July 1.
Howard acknowledged those who were also under consideration as interim dean.
“It was a privilege to discuss the position with each of them and to gain their insights into the college and its strategic opportunities. Each of them would have brought great strengths to the position; I look forward to their continued contributions to the college and the university,” he said.
Howard also noted the current leadership in the college.
“I must acknowledge one of the really great Aggies in the history of NMSU, outgoing Dean Lowell Catlett. One of the first Regents Professors appointed at NMSU, Dr. Catlett is celebrated for his wit, his speaking abilities and his ability to connect with people,” Howard said. “No less important, under his leadership the college has built a strong sense of community that attracts students, encourages research collaborations, and has fostered strong connections across the state.”
Information from NMSU