Dean F. Stauffer selected as associate dean of academic programs for College of Natural Resources and Environment
Virginia Tech’s College of Natural Resources and Environment has named Dean F. Stauffer of Blacksburg, Va., as associate dean of academic programs. A tenured professor of wildlife in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences, Stauffer succeeds Richard Oderwald, who retired on June 30 after serving as associate dean since 2001.
“Dr. Stauffer brings a wealth of experience in teaching and student engagement to the role of associate dean of academic programs,” said Paul Winistorfer, dean of the college. “He has had a very successful career focused on students and learning, and will bring this perspective to his new role. I am very pleased and excited to have Dr. Stauffer join our college leadership team.”
As associate dean of academic programs, Stauffer will work to provide critical college leadership in both undergraduate and graduate education, as well as in student services across the college. He will oversee degree programs, central advising, student recruiting and orientation, education abroad, and transfer students, and will serve as an advocate for the college, providing vision for moving the college forward.
“I am excited to have this opportunity serve both undergraduate and graduate students in the college,” Stauffer said. “The College of Natural Resources and Environment already has a strong academic foundation to build upon. I hope to ensure that all students have the opportunity to excel and succeed in their academic endeavors. I look forward to contributing to the education of the next generation of leaders and preparing them to be engaged, productive stewards of our natural resources.”
Since coming to Virginia Tech in 1983, Stauffer has developed three undergraduate and three graduate classes that he taught on a regular basis in addition to his special topical seminars. His teaching has earned him three awards for teaching excellence from students; he has also been recognized with a Certificate of Teaching Excellence from Virginia Tech.
Stauffer has supervised many students working on their theses, dissertations, and undergraduate research. He has been the major professor for 20 master’s and 10 doctoral students, and has served as a member on 95 graduate committees.
He has served on the college’s Student Policy and Affairs Committee for 12 years and as chair since 2006. He has also served as chair of the college’s Diversity Committee and has represented the college on the University Commencement Committee since 2002. Stauffer has played an active role in The Wildlife Society, serving as an officer in the College and University Education Working Group and the Ethnic and Gender Diversity Working Group.
Stauffer has authored or co-authored over 100 publications and has been a presenter or co-presenter on 105 professional talks. He is the editor of the book Ecology and Management of Appalachian Ruffed Grouse, which is scheduled for publication early fall 2010, and has helped write book chapters on topics such as Appalachian oak forests and quail methodology.
Stauffer earned his doctorate in forestry, wildlife and range science and his bachelor’s in wildlife and fisheries resources from the University of Idaho, and his master’s in animal ecology from Iowa State University.
