Rob Ballenger, Larisa Cioaca, and Randie Hovatter
Image Credit: Meredith Epstein
As the Institute of Applied Agriculture (IAA) kicks off its 50th year, it also welcomes three new full time personnel, setting a record for the most faculty/staff the IAA has ever had at one time. “When I started as Acting Director in 2007, we had 5 faculty members and one staff person; we have tripled in size,” says IAA Director Glori Hyman. The IAA now houses 16 faculty and 2 staff members.
“It’s a joy to have so many more minds contributing to the decision-making process here at the IAA and to have access to diverse pool of talents,” comments Hyman. “But, it’s the students who really benefit by the exposure to more perspectives and knowledge bases.”
Rob Ballenger joined the IAA faculty as an Oral Communication Lecturer after 15 years educating and coaching college students and professionals in the art of communication. Most recently, he has been producing and editing NPR’s “All Things Considered” news magazine show. He holds a M.A. in Speech Communication from University of Washington, and a B.A. in Communication Studies from Virginia Tech.
With her MBA from the University of Maryland Smith School of Business and 8 years managing corporate communications, Larisa Cioaca joins the IAA faculty eager to develop our new Leadership and Communication concentration. “Larisa is one of those rare people who is skilled in communication, analytical thinking, finance, and leadership. We’re very fortunate to have lured her away from the corporate world,” says Hyman.
The final eager and enthusiastic member to join the IAA this fall is graphic designer, marketing assistant and social media whiz Randie Hovatter. A native of Maryland’s Eastern Shore and graduate from Salisbury University with a B.F.A. in Graphic Design, Hovatter is the IAA’s new Student Services Coordinator. She will be recruiting students, marketing programs, updating social media, and handling alumni relations.
The IAA is also excited to welcome one of our alumni back to campus as part of our adjunct teaching faculty. Anne Agee Gleeson graduated from the IAA in 1981, and then completed her BS in Horticulture from UMD. Continuing her education, Gleeson earned her Master’s in Landscape Architecture. For 17 years, she has operated her own business, A.G. Environmental Restoration, LLC, providing services for landscape architecture, ecological restoration, and environmental planning. She will be teaching Landscape Design and Implementation this Fall.
Please visit the faculty/staff page for contact information for IAA faculty and staff, or meet them in person at one of our upcoming events.
