Dr. Kati Migliaccio started a new leadership role as Dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. However, her journey at the University of Florida began in 2005. Dr. Migliaccio began her UF journey at the UF/IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center, working as faculty in the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering (ABE). Her research and Extension work has focused on water conservation, hydrology and irrigation in agricultural, natural and urban systems.

In 2018, she began serving ABE as department chair. Collaborating with her colleagues, their efforts for student experience improvement have led to increased undergraduate research and other experiential learning opportunities. Dr. Migliaccio is excited for what the future holds during her tenure as dean. Here, she elaborates more on her new role, journey at UF, and overall passion for CALS.

1. What does it mean to be dean? What does a dean “do”?

To be dean means that you have a responsibility to lead an organization in both day-to-day operations and future vision considering all audience served. The dean does many things – but nothing alone. A dean is only as successful as their team. Luckily, CALS has an excellent dean team!

2. Your background is in agricultural and biological engineering. What made you want to become an engineer?

I decided to be an engineer because I loved the idea of solving problems with math and science. I also desired a profession where I could contribute to making decisions that benefited our natural resources, food systems and people.

3. You served as chair for the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering the past six years. What is an accomplishment of which you are most proud from your time as chair?

I am most proud of the ABE department’s reputation. Anywhere you go in the world of agricultural and biological engineering, UF/IFAS ABE is viewed as a strong research leader with excellent faculty and students. This was a team effort, and I’m very excited to have been part of that team. The other accomplishment I’m really excited about is the new WW Glenn Teaching Building, which will further hands-on teaching space, providing state of the art learning environments.

4. What do you see as CALS’ strengths, and how would you build upon them?

CALS primary strength is its people. I hope to build on this strength by supporting our shared vision and planning for future needs.

5. You have had a leadership role in the university’s AI Initiative. What is AI and why is it important for students to understand and use it?

AI stands for artificial intelligence. Artificial intelligence can be explained broadly to be the use of computers to accomplish tasks that usually require human intelligence by Artificial Intelligence – Center for Instructional Technology and Training – University of Florida. It is important for students to gain AI knowledge due to its integration into all parts of society – AI is in the workplace, in our homes, in entertainment and in most activities that require a purchase. The more someone knows about AI, the better they can use it to enhance their life both professional and personally. Likewise, it is important for people to understand its limitations.

6. What do you love spending time on outside of work?

I love spending time with my family (including pets), gardening, cooking, reading and making it through a Pilates class!

7. What are you most looking forward to as dean?

As dean, I’m looking forward to learning more about UF/IFAS and those we serve. The amazing thing about UF/IFAS is that even after working here 20 years – there are still new people to meet and new programs to learn about! UF/IFAS is truly a vibrant and impressive organization!

8. What is the most important thing students should know about you?

The most important thing students should know about me is that I was once in their shoes – and understand the struggles, growth and excitement of being a student. My hope is for CALS to provide the best possible experience and opportunities for students to reach their greatest potential.

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