By Morgan Marley
University of Arkansas Agricultural Education, Communications and Technology Associate Professor Leslie Edgar was recently promoted to assistant dean of the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences, and she continues to impact AECT students.
Edgar saw an opportunity in the promotion that will allow her to make an even bigger difference for AECT students’ educational experiences.
“My number one passion has always been working with students,” said Edgar. “I’m the type of person that if I see something that I don’t like, then I need to do something about it; you can’t gripe about a situation if you’re not willing to do something about it.”
Her experience working directly with students pushed her to look for ways that would reduce or eliminate barriers for them, said Edgar. Her new duties with the Bumpers College Honors Program and continued efforts in the International Programs Office inspire her to find ways to connect with students at a more intense level of education.
“It was a hard decision for me to leave (teaching),” said Edgar. “But I did keep my research appointment within our department. So, 25 percent of my appointment is still within the department and focused on research.”
Even though Edgar is no longer teaching classes, she is available
to students, specifically graduate students.
“In this position, I have three graduate students that I have
the opportunity to mentor,” said Edgar. “One is focused on general communications, one on honors and one on international programs. So I still get the opportunity to not only do research that adds value to our department, but also mentor three students who are earning master’s degrees in our department.”
Another opportunity Edgar has is working with faculty across the college. An international programs committee and an honors program committee, whic are comprised of one faculty member from each of the Bumpers College departments, guide these programs. Because of her experience working with faculty, she is able to connect students with faculty members to create a new learning experiences.
Edgar said, “With my relationship with Bumpers College faculty, I
have been able to connect students
to faculty mentors for either research or international interests. This has been a benefit for our students, and I am looking forward to continuing to work with both faculty and students in these endeavors.”