Source(s):
Mike Martin mvm@gnv.ifas.ufl.edu, (352) 392-1971
Waldy Klassen klassen@gnv.ifas.ufl.edu, (305) 246-7000
Van Waddill vhw@gnv.ifas.ufl.edu, (561) 993-1500

GAINESVILLE, Fla.—Two administrative changes in the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences will improve the effectiveness of research and education programs for producers and consumers in South Florida, according to Mike Martin, UF vice president for agriculture and natural resources.

Both changes were announced Oct. 9. Waldy Klassen, director of UF’s Tropical Research and Education Center, or REC, in Homestead since 1994, has been named South Florida director-at-large. He will work with faculty at seven RECs operated by UF in South Florida.

Martin also announced that Van Waddill, director of the Everglades REC in Belle Glade and the Fort Lauderdale REC, will oversee operation of the Tropical REC in Homestead. In a move designed to reduce administrative overhead, Van Waddill recently became director of the Fort Lauderdale REC in addition to the Everglades REC. His new leadership of the research and education program in Homestead is another step in that direction, Martin said.

As South Florida director-at-large, Klassen will work on faculty and international program development as well as improved service to the area’s vegetable industry. His faculty development work will focus on research and extension programs at the Tropical REC, Southwest Florida REC in Immokalee; Gulf Coast REC in Bradenton; Everglades REC in Belle Glade; Fort Lauderdale REC; Indian River REC and the Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory in Vero Beach.

“Waldy’s substantial experience and unique capabilities will be of real service to IFAS beyond the fine leadership he has brought to the Tropical REC in Homestead,” Martin said. “He will help faculty improve their research records and develop peer-reviewed publications.”

Martin said Klassen also will work closely with the IFAS Office of International Programs to increase sources of funding, identify international partners and “enhance globalization in South Florida.”

To further improve service to the South Florida vegetable industry, Klassen will develop strategies for increasing efficiency, lowering production costs and enhancing competitiveness, Martin said.

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