West Virginia University - News and Information Services
Long-time WVU professor, former administrator named interim leader of Potomac State
A long-time West Virginia University professor and former administrator involved in preparing tomorrow’s teachers and leaders in agriculture, extension and environmental technology has been named interim president of Potomac State College of WVU.
Kerry S. Odell, an associate professor and former associate dean in the Davis College of Agriculture, Forestry and Consumer Sciences, will begin his new duties July 21, Provost Gerald Lang said. He will replace Mary Rittling, who is leaving in August to become president of Davidson County Community College in Lexington, N.C.
“Dr. Odell’s background in agriculture and his administrative experience will prove invaluable as the college enhances its program offerings in forestry and agriculture and implements administrative changes,” Lang said. “His ability to work well with people will help make the pending transition easier.”
Odell, who came to WVU in 1986, is an associate professor of agricultural and environmental education. The program, housed in the Davis College’s Division of Resource Management, stresses communication and leadership skills to prepare students for positions in teaching, extension, environmental technology, government, industry or entrepreneurship. His research focuses on leadership and education in agriculture and natural resource production.
He served as the college’s associate dean for academic affairs and development from 1994-2000. Before that, he was an associate professor of agricultural education and assistant professor agricultural education.
He has a doctorate from The Ohio State University, a master’s degree from The Pennsylvania State University, a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia and an associate’s degree from State University of New York at Alfred.
Odell said being asked to lead Potomac State during this time of transition is an honor. “I look forward to continuing to build on Potomac State’s rich traditions, while helping to enhance its offerings to meet the changing needs of students and society,” he said.
Potomac State, created in 1901, is a two-year residential regional campus of WVU, offering 47 two-year associate of arts programs, 17 career/technical programs, a bachelor’s degree in nursing through WVU and a bachelor’s degree through WVU’s Regents Bachelor of Arts Degree program. Under new legislation, Potomac State becomes a fully integrated division of WVU in July 2005 with a provost rather than a regional campus president.
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