Dodds named Western Illinois University Distinguished Agriculture Alumnus
Darrin Dodds
Darrin Dodds, associate director of the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station, has been honored as a Distinguished Agriculture Alumnus by his alma mater, Western Illinois University, or WIU.
The award recognizes graduates who have made significant contributions to agriculture. Dodds, a Rushville, Illinois native, holds a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from WIU, where his academic journey began. His passion for agriculture has since taken him across the country, from earning a master’s degree at Purdue University to completing his Ph.D. at Mississippi State.
Throughout his career, Dodds has authored over 90 manuscripts, secured nearly $10 million in research funding, mentored 30 graduate students and contributed to international collaborations in food security and agriculture in Morocco, Brazil, Zambia and Mozambique.
He credits much of his success to the people who have helped him along the way -- starting with his parents who instilled in him a strong work ethic. Dodds emphasized the importance of asking questions.
“Every time I needed help, I asked questions, and someone took the time to help me take the next step,” he said. “One of those conversations led to an internship, which opened the door to graduate school at Purdue University for a master’s degree in weed science, which led to relationships that brought me to MSU for a Ph.D.,” he said.
He said each step in his journey was shaped by mentors and supporters who invested in his growth -- and now, he strives to pay forward in his career.
“I’ve been fortunate to have so many people support me along the way when they didn’t have to, and that has stuck with me,” he said. “Of all the projects I have been part of at MSU, what I am most proud of is having the opportunity to support graduate students on their journey -- just as others have helped me.”
At MSU, Dodds has played a key role in advancing the university’s land-grant mission through his work in teaching, outreach, research and administrative roles. He previously served as head of the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences and continues to lead efforts that benefit producers, students and faculty. Beyond the university, he engages in national agriculture conversations that shape the future of the industry.
The Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station (MAFES) conducts innovative research at 16 branch locations across the state to address the needs of Mississippi agriculture and communities. MAFES research focuses on improving plant, animal, and food production systems while promoting sustainability and enhancing the well-being of residents through advancements in health and food safety.
Mississippi State University is taking care of what matters. Learn more at www.msstate.edu.
Anslee Boyd | Agriculture and Natural Resources Marketing
