Missouri State alumna, plant and soil expert, named dean of Darr College of Agriculture

At the May meeting of Missouri State University’s Board of Governors, Melissa Bledsoe was officially announced as the dean of the Darr College of Agriculture.

She’d been serving as the interim for more than a year.

Provost John Jasinski made the introduction, noting many of Bledsoe’s accomplishments.

“Melissa has been recognized in the state of Missouri, nationally and internationally, for her work,” he told the MSU board at the May 9 meeting. “She’s had great mentors, lots of external partnerships with the Missouri Department of Agriculture — working with Silver Dollar City right now, Convoy of Hope — continues to teach and mentor and guide.”

Jasinski pointed out that the expert in plant physiology and nutrition had obtained several grants and presented research nationally and internationally.

Bledsoe earned a bachelor’s degree in horticulture and a master’s degree in plant science from Missouri State and then a doctorate in plant, insect and microbial sciences from the University of Missouri.

After working at MU’s division of plant sciences from 2010-13, she was hired as an assistant professor at Missouri State and then promoted to an associate professor.

Bledsoe is currently an endowed professor through the Clif and Gail Smart Professor in Agriculture award. She was also named the interim dean in 2023.

“Dr. Bledsoe is the right choice to lead the Darr College of Agriculture as it continues to evolve, offering unique ‘farm-to-fork’ curriculum and learning experiences,” Jasinski said in a news release announcing Bledsoe was the permanent dean, starting May 1.

“Her student-focused, team-oriented and results-driven approach — combined with her understanding of changing internal needs and external expectations — will serve the college well for years to come.”

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The structure of the Darr College of Agriculture changed as part of the university’s recent academic realignment, taking hospitality leadership under its umbrella.

“The momentum of the Darr College of Agriculture is fueled by many opportunities on the horizon. I look forward to working with colleagues and the ag community to develop our programs to support the agriculture industry,” said Bledsoe, in the release. “It’s all for our students to learn, grow, and lead the future of agriculture.”