Laura Stephenson named vice president and dean at UK

By Blake Jackson

The University of Kentucky has announced Laura Stephenson as the new vice president for land-grant engagement and dean of the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. This appointment was revealed by UK President Eli Capilouto and Provost Robert DiPaola.

Currently serving as associate vice president for land-grant engagement and associate dean and director of extension, Stephenson joined UK in 2018 after six years in administrative roles at the University of Tennessee.

Stephenson earlier career includes over two decades with the UK Cooperative Extension Service and experience as a high school home economics teacher in Monticello, Kentucky.

Stephenson will succeed Nancy Cox, who has led the Martin-Gatton College for over a decade and was the inaugural vice president for land-grant engagement.

DiPaola praised Stephenson, stating, “Dean Stephenson is highly regarded within the college as well as the entire agriculture community in this state and throughout the country. She will build and expand upon the strong foundation that Dean and Vice President Cox established in leading one of the country’s premier colleges of agriculture for the last decade.”

“I am incredibly excited to assume these important leadership positions on behalf of UK and the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment,” Stephenson said. “The legacy of leadership and service created by Dean Cox and those who preceded her will guide us as we grow our footprint as a college, our presence in the state and expand our mission to do and be more for the Commonwealth we serve.”

Stephenson's leadership comes during a transformative period for Martin-Gatton CAFE, which includes the construction of the Martin-Gatton Agricultural Sciences Building.

Set to open in 2026, the facility will serve as the college's central hub, featuring modern classrooms, collaborative spaces, and a café.

This development is supported by a $100 million donation from the late UK alum and trustee Carol Martin “Bill” Gatton, marking the largest gift in UK’s history.

Throughout her career, Stephenson has been a driving force in Cooperative Extension reform, workforce training, and community engagement.

Stephenson work has earned her numerous accolades, supported by millions in research funding, and she continues to lead efforts to advance education, agriculture, and public health across Kentucky.

Photo Credit: university-of-kentucky