After a nationwide search, I’m pleased to name Chad Higgins as the UM System Chief Engagement Officer and MU Vice Chancellor for Extension and Engagement. Chad is a proven leader who has done a tremendous job as interim vice chancellor since January 2023. I look forward to working with him — and all Extension faculty and staff — to strengthen Missouri agriculture and benefit community health, education and economic development across the state.

Chad’s experience will help us share our land-grant mission of research, teaching and meaningful engagement with even more Missourians. We also have ambitious plans to grow our impact in each Missouri county, and we are collaborating with elected officials, industry leaders and community members to make a difference for those we serve.

I want to again congratulate Chad and thank our dedicated Extension faculty and staff for their hard work on behalf of every Missourian.

— Mun