Following a national search, Kumar Venkitanarayanan has been appointed dean of the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR) at the University of Connecticut, as well as director of the Connecticut Cooperative Extension System and the Storrs Agricultural Experiment Station, effective July 1.
Venkitanarayanan, a longtime member of the UConn community, has served the University for more than 27 years in a range of leadership roles, including interim dean of CAHNR, senior associate dean, and associate dean for research and graduate education. He earned his bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine from Kerala Agricultural University, a master’s degree in veterinary public health from Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, a master’s degree in food science and technology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, and a Ph.D. in animal science from the University of Connecticut.
“Dr. Venkitanarayanan’s work reflects a deep understanding of the University’s land-grant mission and the role of research, education, and engagement in addressing complex challenges in agriculture, health, and natural resources. His leadership will continue to advance CAHNR’s ability to serve the residents of our state, improve quality of life, and fuel Connecticut’s innovation economy,” says Interim Provost Pamir Alpay.
During his tenure as interim dean, he has provided steady leadership across the College’s teaching, research, and extension missions. He has worked closely with faculty, staff, students, and external partners to strengthen academic programs, expand interdisciplinary collaboration, and enhance the visibility and reputation of the College.
He has also led efforts to advance student and faculty success while taking a strategic approach to resource development. Over the past eight months, CAHNR has exceeded its annual fundraising goal, with $6.45 million secured, including a $1 million bequest. Venkitanarayanan has placed particular emphasis on expanding support for graduate education, raising significant philanthropic funding to benefit graduate students across multiple departments. He also reconstituted the Dean’s Advisory Board to deepen engagement with industry, government, alumni, and community partners and to create new opportunities for student enrichment and workforce development.
Previously, as associate dean for research and graduate education, Venkitanarayanan helped strengthen CAHNR’s research enterprise, contributing to a doubling of extramural funding and the growth of interdisciplinary and translational research initiatives. His leadership has supported a robust research portfolio and expanded partnerships with federal agencies, industry, and community stakeholders.
An accomplished scholar in food safety, Venkitanarayanan has authored more than 140 peer-reviewed publications and secured more than $18 million as PI and $35 million as Co-PI in competitive grant funding throughout his career. He is also a dedicated mentor and educator with a strong commitment to experiential learning and student success. He is a member of the Connecticut Academy of Science and Engineering, a Fellow of the Institute of Food Technologists, and has received multiple professional honors recognizing his contributions to research, teaching, and service.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as dean of CAHNR,” says Venkitanarayanan. “Together with our community, I am excited to build on our momentum, strengthen our shared mission, and explore new opportunities that will elevate the College’s impact across Connecticut and beyond.”
