EAST LANSING, Mich. — Jeannine Schweihofer has been selected as the associate director of the Michigan State University (MSU) Extension agriculture and agribusiness institute. Schweihofer was chosen after an extensive search and selection process that highlighted her experience working with farmers and agriculture communities. She begins her new role on December 5, 2022.
Schweihofer will work closely with Ron Bates, director of the institute and assistant dean for outreach and Extension in the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Bates said Schweihofer is held in high regard by her colleagues, farmers and others who work in agriculture.
“Jeannine is a highly motivated, well-respected Extension professional with an excellent understanding of agriculture from an academic and a practical standpoint,” Bates said. “She is a creative leader with excellent ideas on how to continue to improve our services.”
Schweihofer is currently a senior educator dedicated to meat science research and Extension. Since joining MSU Extension in 2007, she has conducted research and developed numerous resources and programs related to the production of beef, pork, lamb and poultry. Because of her vast skill set, Jeannine has also been called on to help implement high-level, critical projects. In her new role, she will work with nearly 100 educators throughout Michigan to lead program direction on challenging issues facing agriculture.
“I’ve had a passion for agriculture since my early days as a 4-H member,” Schweihofer said. “Over the past 15 years I’ve been inspired by the work of my Extension colleagues. I’m excited about expanding existing networks and building new partnership so we can continue to provide farmers and agribusiness professional with the education and resources they need to thrive.”
Schweihofer received her undergraduate degree in animal science from MSU and holds masters’ and PhD degrees in meat science from Kansas State University. She replaces Marilyn Thelen, who has been in the role since 2017. Thelen is retiring after 26 years with MSU Extension.
— Michigan State University Extension