His Message to Terps: Embrace Challenges and Create Change
As the fall semester begins, we are thrilled to welcome everyone back to the University of Maryland! The start of a new academic year brings fresh opportunities, exciting challenges, and for the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics (AREC), a new chapter under the leadership of our newly appointed chair, Professor Ken Leonard.
Introducing Ken Leonard: A New Chapter for AREC
Ken Leonard is no stranger to the University of Maryland or the AREC community. Having joined the department in 2003, Ken has spent over two decades shaping the minds of students and contributing to groundbreaking research. As he steps into the role of department chair, Ken brings with him not only a wealth of experience but also a genuine passion for the field of agricultural and resource economics.
In a recent interview, Ken shared his vision for the department, emphasizing the importance of creating a collaborative environment. "My primary goal as chair is not about what I want to do, but how I can make sure that others can do what they want to do," he said. Ken’s approach is deeply rooted in fostering the success of faculty, students, and staff alike, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the department's mission.
Ken’s research focus lies in rural Africa, where he studies human capital services such as education and health, and their impact on improving lives. He is particularly passionate about working with graduate students, who play an integral role in his research projects. "One of the things I really like about agricultural economics in the United States is the way we work with graduate students. I tend to do big projects where you travel overseas and collect a lot of data, and graduate students are invaluable in that process," he noted.
Ken’s vision for AREC is rooted in creating an environment where faculty, students, and staff can thrive. "The best way of generating new ideas is to teach diverse groups of people to follow the science, and then they incorporate a piece of themselves into that idea. That makes for better science and a better future," Ken explained. This commitment to inclusivity and innovation is something Ken plans to nurture during his time as chair.
One of the significant challenges Ken identifies is the role of economics in addressing climate change. With agriculture at the forefront of this global issue, AREC is uniquely positioned to contribute valuable insights and solutions. Ken is committed to guiding the department in exploring how economics can help understand and combat climate change, while also considering the voices of those most affected by it. "The big challenge for the world right now is climate change, and our challenge as a department is trying to explain the role of economics in understanding and addressing it," he said.
Looking Forward
As we embark on this new academic year, we look forward to the positive impact Ken Leonard will have on AREC. His dedication to fostering a supportive and dynamic environment, coupled with his commitment to addressing the pressing issues of our time, promises to lead the department into an exciting future.
Ken offers this inspiring message to returning Terps: "Welcome back to campus! As we dive into a new semester, I encourage you all to bring your ideas forward, no matter how unconventional they might seem. The key to great science is not just in having ideas, but in the willingness to follow them to their fullest potential."
We invite you to join us in welcoming Ken as the new chair and to stay tuned for more updates on the innovative work happening in AREC. Here’s to a successful and inspiring semester ahead!
Welcome back, Terps!
