Steve Bonanno has announced his resignation of dean and director of the West Virginia University Extension Service, effective June 30.
With 37 years of service to the state and the University, Bonanno will focus on studying the best programs and practices at Extension and land-grant programs across the nation and make recommendations on program improvements to President Gordon Gee.
“WVU Extension is rich in both its purpose and its people,” Bonanno said. “It has been my distinct honor and privilege to lead this great organization and I am very proud of the accomplishments we have made. The programs and services we have provided to the citizens of West Virginia have been exceptional.”
“The Extension Service is a cornerstone of land-grant universities and the service they provide to their states, but the environment in which it operates is much different than the world in which it was created,” Gee said. “I can think of no one better positioned to step back and review what is happening in Extension and at land-grants across the nation so that West Virginia University can strengthen and heighten its position as one of the premier Extension programs in the country.”
Sue Day-Perroots, former associate provost for undergraduate education, will serve as interim dean effective July 1. Coming out of retirement, Day-Perroots brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership experience. She will lead Extension as the search for the next dean and director begins.