MSU Names Southwest Regional Extension Director
MSU Names Southwest Regional Extension Director
6/30/08
Contact: Beth Stuever
517-432-1555, ext. 177
EAST LANSING, Mich. -- Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) has named Don Lehman the regional director for MSU Extension southwest. Lehman took over the position June 1. He replaces Sara (Sally) Stuby.
“I am confident that Don will excel in this demanding position and will work well with the goal-driven, innovative county directors in the southwest region as well as the MSUE administrative team,” said Tom Coon, director of MSU Extension. “His thoughtful decision-making skills, his passion for Extension and for people, and his strong work ethic assure me that the southwest region will continue to benefit from exceptional leadership, just as it did under Sally Stuby's guidance.”
Lehman joined MSUE in 1998 as a groundwater educator serving 14 counties in central Michigan. In 2003, he was appointed county Extension director for Montcalm County, a position he held until accepting the position of southwest regional director.
“I’m really encouraged and I’ve really enjoyed working with the current staff,” Lehman said. “There’s a lot of support from the Extension administration, and I’m really looking forward to this great opportunity.”
The southwest region contains 17 counties and two research stations and stretches from the Ohio border up through the middle of the state. In his new role, Lehman will help direct educational programming provided by 140 county Extension directors, educators and program associates.
“My first goal is to learn the needs of the counties and get to know the staff members well,” Lehman said. “And I’d certainly like to maintain the good programs we already have and look for new areas where Extension programming can grow in the southwest region.”
Lehman has a bachelor’s degree in park and recreation administration from MSU and a master’s degree in public administration from Western Michigan University.
MSU Extension helps people improve their lives through an educational process that applies knowledge to critical needs, issues and opportunities. The organization has offices in all 83 Michigan counties.
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