Bonnie Johnson
January 13, 2025
Media ArticleIowa State University's Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, renowned for its commitment to advancing agriculture and engineering systems, has announced Amy Kaleita as the inaugural Larry and Bunita Buss Department Chair.
This endowed chair was established through the generosity of alumni Larry and Bunny Buss, emphasizing sustainability and soil health enhancement in agricultural practices.
During a special ceremony held at the Sukup Atrium of the Biorenewables Complex on Iowa State’s campus, Kaleita was officially presented with this prestigious role.
Including a bachelor’s degree from Penn State and advanced degrees in civil and agricultural engineering from the University of Illinois, her expertise aligns perfectly with the department’s strategic goals.
The Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Iowa State is consistently ranked among the nation’s top programs by U.S. News & World Report, with its undergraduate program ranked No. 1 and the graduate program at No. 2 in 2024.
The department is noted for its significant research and development spending, positioning it as a leader among similar departments nationally.
The endowed chair supports the department's ambitious initiatives, providing resources for new faculty positions, cutting-edge equipment, and scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students.
These resources are crucial for fostering innovation and addressing the evolving challenges of agricultural and biosystems engineering.
The department will continue to push the boundaries of research in areas such as renewable energy, air and water quality, and alternative production systems.
Photo by: cals.iastate.edu
