Agriculture Extension Director Assistant

About The Role

The Director of the Pathfinder Program will provide strategic leadership and administrative oversight for a new philanthropic initiative designed to prepare potential equine veterinarians for practice through enhanced pre-veterinary education and experiential learning. The Pathfinder Program responds to the national shortage of equine veterinarians by expanding engagement, strengthening preparation for veterinary medicine, and increasing access to hands-on equine training opportunities. The Program should leverage, build upon and amplify existing equine-centric efforts in the Pre-Veterinary Mentoring Program at the University of Kentucky.

The Director will be responsible for planning, implementing, coordinating, and evaluating Pathfinder Program activities in alignment with institutional priorities, donor intent, and the mission of the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. They will collaborate with faculty and staff, equine practitioners, veterinary partners, industry stakeholders, and college and university leaders to develop meaningful experiences and pathways for individuals interested in equine veterinary medicine. The position will report to the Director of the Pre-Veterinary Mentoring Program.

The Director will lead efforts to expand hands-on learning, mentorship, internship placements, outreach programming, educational support, and post-graduation tracking to help prepare well-qualified individuals for veterinary school and support long-term retention in equine practice.

Why Join Us

At the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, you'll find a community that values collaboration, growth, and recognition. Benefits of joining our team include:

• Exceptional benefits package
• A formal mentoring program to support your professional development
• Access to a staff development fund for continued learning and skill building
• Dedicated staff recognition programs that celebrate your contributions
• A shared commitment to making the University of Kentucky the University of, for, and with Kentucky

Join us in shaping the future of teaching and learning—where innovation meets impact. To find out more about Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment and how the college supports the mission of this being the University of, for, and with Kentucky, Click Here

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, implement, and evaluate complex programs or initiatives in an academic, agricultural, veterinary, or industry setting
• Knowledge of equine veterinary medicine, pre-veterinary education pathways, experiential learning, or agricultural workforce development
• Experience building partnerships with faculty, practitioners, industry stakeholders, clinical partners, schools, youth organizations, or community-based organizations
• Demonstrated commitment to student success, hands-on learning, mentoring, and career preparation

Preferred Education/Experience

• Master's degree required; doctoral or professional degree in animal science, veterinary medicine, equine science, agricultural education, higher education, or a closely related field preferred
• Driver's License preferred

Pay

The anticipated salary range for this position is $90,000–$120,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Schedule

Primarily days, some possible evening and weekend activities.