New Institute of Agricultural Technology program coordinator named in Traverse City
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EmailDale Elshoff is the new program coordinator for the Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City, Michigan, as part of the Michigan State University (MSU) Institute of Agricultural Technology (IAT) partnerships.
Dale Elshoff is the new program coordinator for the plant science program at Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City, Michigan, as part of the Michigan State University (MSU) Institute of Agricultural Technology (IAT) partnerships.
Through the IAT partnership, students can attend Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) and earn an associate’s degree in landscape management or viticulture while also earning an MSU IAT certificate. These courses and credits can also count toward a bachelor’s degree at MSU.
“Dale brings experience in advising and preparing students for success academically and in their future careers. These things tie in closely to the mission of the IAT program and its partnerships across Michigan as we support workforce development in emerging areas across the state,” said Randy Showerman, director of IAT.
Northwestern Michigan College was the first community college IAT partner. This partnership laid the groundwork for the now 10 community college partners across Michigan, in addition to the East Lansing location at MSU.
“Northwestern Michigan College is on the forefront of re-imagining higher education, with new initiatives in experiential learning, innovation and entrepreneurship,” Elshoff said. “I’m excited to be able to bridge similar initiatives in both Traverse City and East Lansing. The cross-pollination of knowledge at both institutions results in really robust programs.
“I’m also excited to draw on my professional and my personal experience in agriculture, education and entrepreneurship to support the needs of our Institute of Agricultural Technology students in and around Traverse City. My husband, son and daughter-in-law work in landscape management and viticulture, so growing this program and making positive impact is near to my heart.”
Elshoff spent close to 20 years in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and MSU Extension teaching and advising students and supporting community education and innovation.
She spent the past two years as an academic advisor for agribusiness management and environmental economics management students in the Department of Agricultural, Food and Resource Economics. Elshoff received the Walter Adams Advisor of the Year award, presented by the MSU Department of Student Life in April 2018. The award is presented to a graduate student, faculty member or staff member who has displayed an exemplary level of commitment and dedication to their organization.
