Mullenix to Lead AU Animal Sciences Department

By Marlee Jackson

Auburn University (AU) has named Dr. Kim Mullenix the next head of its Department of Animal Sciences, effective Aug. 19. She succeeds longtime department leader Dr. Wayne Greene.

"I look forward to working with our faculty, staff, students and stakeholders to cultivate leaders, drive innovations and support our state's vibrant animal agriculture industries," Mullenix said. "Together, we will build upon the department's strong foundation to foster partnerships and enhance our impacts on agricultural communities."

Mullenix understands the needs of Alabama's livestock industry. In addition to her vast Extension experience, she and her husband, Daniel, raise beef cattle in Lee County and are involved in the Alabama Farmers Federation.

Mullenix said her goals include seeing the department become a regional leader in animal agriculture research and a premier information source for animal science practices. She'll also work closely to engage students, alumni and stakeholders.

Those stakeholders include fellow farmers and Federation members like Mitchell Henry. The Lawrence County farmer is one of countless producers who have benefited from Mullenix's beef cattle and forage expertise.

"I'm ecstatic she has taken this role," said Henry, who serves on the Federation State Beef Committee and holds a degree in animal sciences from AU. "Kim is someone who cares about the beef industry wholeheartedly. She believes in beef cattle and Alabama's agriculture industry and will be an excellent department head."

Pike County farmer Steve Stroud echoed Henry. Mullenix worked closely with Stroud to introduce alfalfa on his farm, a trial that's continued to pay dividends, he said.

"She's super easy to work with," said Stroud, a member of the Federation State Hay & Forage Committee. "Kim is full of answers, and if she doesn't know the answer, she'll get you in touch with someone who does. She's a great professional who is good at what she does."

Mullenix earned bachelor's and master's degrees in animal sciences from AU and a Ph.D. in agronomy from the University of Florida. She joined AU's faculty in 2014, currently serving as associate professor, Extension beef systems specialist and program team coordinator for Extension's Animal Science and Forages Team.

Mullenix has served as president of the American Society of Animal Science Southern Section. She is a board member for the Alabama Beef Cattle Improvement Association, life member of the Alabama Cattlemen's Association and graduate of LEAD21, a leadership development program for faculty and staff of land-grant institutions.

The Mullenixes have three children - Davis, Harper and Mary Ellis.

Public link

Please use the above public link if you want to share this noodl on another website.