Amy Charkowski Named Dean of Land and Food Systems

New leader brings experience in research and agricultural education

• Bonnie Johnson
• June 22, 2026
• Media Article

Dr Amy Charkowski will lead the Faculty of Land and Food Systems bringing research expertise and academic leadership to strengthen innovation education and collaboration across agriculture sectors worldwide

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Dr. Amy Charkowski has been appointed as the new Dean of the Faculty of Land and Food Systems for a five-year term starting October 1, 2026. She brings strong experience in agricultural research, education, and leadership to the role. 
 

Currently, Dr. Charkowski serves as the Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Education at the College of Agricultural Sciences at Colorado State University.  
 

In this role, she helps improve research quality, supports graduate programs, and builds partnerships both within the university and with outside organizations. Her leadership has helped strengthen teamwork across different departments and research areas. 
 

Before joining Colorado State University in 2016, Dr. Charkowski worked as a scientist with the Agricultural Research Service. She was also a faculty member at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she contributed to plant pathology research. During her time there, she led the Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program from 2001 to 2016, supporting quality and innovation in crop production. 
 

At Colorado State University, she served as the head of the Agricultural Biology department until 2023. Her contributions to science and research have been widely recognized. In 2020, she was elected as a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.  

 

She completed her PhD at Cornell University and earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. 

 

The university also expressed appreciation for Dr. David Kitts, who served as Dean pro tem since 2024. His leadership helped guide the faculty during an important period. 
 

The appointment process included support from the President’s Advisory Committee, faculty members, staff, students, and the wider community. Their contributions helped ensure the selection of a strong and capable leader. 
 

Dr. Charkowski’s appointment is expected to strengthen research, education, and collaboration within the Faculty of Land and Food Systems. Her experience and vision will support future growth and innovation in the agricultural sector. 
 

Photo by: landfood.ubc.ca