UW Names Sheridan Research and Extension Center Director

A plant scientist experienced in teaching, research and extension will begin May 18 as director of the University of Wyoming Sheridan Research and Extension (R&E) Center.

Brian Mealor is an assistant professor in the Department of Plant Sciences and extension weed specialist at UW.

“Brian’s professional experiences will serve him well in this position,” says Bret Hess, associate dean of research and director of the Wyoming Agricultural Experiment Station (AES). Based in the UW College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the AES directs four research and extension centers in the state.

“He has proven to be innovative, has strong organizational skills and possesses exceptional communication skills coupled with an ability to work with a broad range of constituencies,” Hess adds. “He brings much-needed leadership to the position.”

Mealor received his doctoral and master’s degrees in rangeland ecology and watershed management at UW and joined the Department of Plant Sciences in 2009. Mealor replaces Valtcho Jeliazkov, who has accepted the director position of the Columbia Basin Agricultural Research Center at Oregon State University.

Hess says Mealor will retain a research appointment and be an active member of the plant sciences department. He will transition from his faculty role to the director position throughout the spring and summer.

The Sheridan R&E Center is housed in the Watt Agriculture Center at Sheridan College, with trials on the grounds and about 400 acres of the Adams Ranch south of the college. The ranch is owned by Whitney Benefits. The center also maintains 250 acres of dryland crops and irrigated vegetables and fruit trees at its former headquarters near Wyarno.