Elaine Turner is a recognized trailblazer in academics as Dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) at the University of Florida. While the University of Florida has risen in national rankings to become the seventh top public institution, CALS has climbed to stand in the top five largest colleges of agricultural and natural resources in the country.

Even as Turner leads CALS students, faculty and staff to reach new milestones, she generously extends her time, attentiveness and advice for the benefit of many UF/IFAS units. Strengthening CALS alumni and stakeholder connections is a shared priority of the College and the UF/IFAS Advancement office, and Turner’s steady partnership in this effort is invaluable.

Cody Helmer, UF/IFAS Executive Director of Development, acknowledged that, “besides being the best academic dean on campus, Dr. Turner is a strong leader and an incredible partner with our development team. She has a strategic vision for engaging alumni and recognizes the need to cultivate future donors today.”

With each opportunity and challenge, Turner’s vision has resulted in numerous established funds, enhanced programs and deepened connections.

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