Alan Grant honored with emeritus status

Alan Grant, retired dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and professor of animal sciences, has been conferred the title of dean emeritus by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.

The emeritus title may be conferred on retired faculty members who are specially recommended to the board by Virginia Tech President Tim Sands in recognition of exemplary service to the university. Nominated individuals who are approved by the board receive a copy of the resolution and a certificate of appreciation.

A member of the Virginia Tech community for 15 years, Grant’s guidance and leadership contributed to the college’s significant growth in enrollment and sponsored research funding, elevating its national and international stature as a premier institution committed to academic excellence, innovation, and high achievement.

Grant provided exemplary administrative leadership to the Virginia Agricultural Experiment Station and Virginia Cooperative Extension, working in close collaboration with directors to ensure that the university’s land-grant missions of research, teaching, and Extension were seamlessly integrated to benefit students, stakeholders, and the broader community. 

He collaborated with federal, state, and local government stakeholders, as well as industry leaders, and was recognized as an innovative leader, a reliable partner, and a key figure in advancing Virginia Tech's cutting-edge agricultural research.

Grant’s scholarship and commitment to the field of agriculture and life sciences have been recognized by his numerous publications, awards, and leadership and service roles with many national- and state-level agencies and professional organizations, including the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities and the U.S. Pork Center of Excellence, of which he is a founding board of directors’ member.

Grant spearheaded the creation of the CALS Global Office, opening new horizons for global and transdisciplinary learning, discovery, and engagement, and elevating the visibility and international reputation of Virginia Tech and its students and faculty. His advocacy for capital project funding led to the construction and renovation of state-of-the-art research and educational facilities, adding close to a half-million square feet of new infrastructure to campus and affiliated locations.

During his tenure, Grant’s leadership enhanced the advancement model within the college, leading to greater participation of alumni and raising over $100 million in philanthropic support for the college. 

Grant received his bachelor’s degree from Cornell University. He received his master’s degree and Ph.D. from Michigan State University.

Written by Anja Hemesath, a senior and a student writer for Virginia Tech Communications and Marketing