By Scout Nelson
Tom Burkey, a professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), has been named interim dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR), starting June 1. He takes over from Tiffany Heng-Moss, who will step into a leadership role as interim vice president and Harlan Vice Chancellor for UNL’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Heng-Moss’s appointment follows Mike Boehm’s decision to return to the faculty after serving in leadership since 2017.
Burkey, a Lincoln native, has been part of UNL’s faculty since 2006 in the animal science department. He also serves as CASNR’s associate dean for graduate education, where he has played a key role in enhancing graduate programs, student success, and workforce readiness. His contributions include co-developing the Leadership Accelerator program and launching the Graduate & Professional Student Community Resource Fair. He previously served as interim head of the Animal Science Department from December 2022 to July 2023.
An internationally recognized expert in swine gut health, Burkey has contributed to probiotic research and co-founded Synbiotic Health. His leadership extends to roles such as President of Digestive Physiology of Pigs-North America and membership in the International Steering Committee. His research supports advancements in animal health while also influencing curriculum development and faculty mentorship at UNL.
“Dr. Burkey is an incredibly collaborative and innovative leader who has demonstrated a deep commitment to student success and research excellence during his nearly two decades in Nebraska,” said Boehm. “I am looking forward to seeing CASNR’s great trajectory continue under his leadership.”
CASNR provides hands-on education in food, energy, water, health, and community development. The college offers diverse programs, including undergraduate, master’s, Ph.D., and veterinary medicine degrees in partnership with Iowa State University. With more than 3,000 students from across Nebraska, the U.S., and over 60 countries, CASNR continues to grow. In Fall 2024, it welcomed its second-largest class, with 640 new students.
“It is an incredible honor to be named the interim CASNR dean,” Burkey said. “CASNR is leading the way in so many areas, including experiential education, pathway programs with K-12 schools, partnerships with industry, and so much more, and it is truly thrilling to be part of this inspiring and innovative community.”
Photo Credit: gettyimages-artiemedvedev
Categories: Nebraska, Education