The vision to educate and train leaders to make a positive difference in ranching was shared by many who influenced the establishment of the King Ranch® Institute for Ranch Management (KRIRM) in 2003. Today, that shared vision is perhaps stronger than ever. Recognizing the profound impact of KRIRM over the past 13 years and the promise of an even greater impact in the future, KRIRM is pleased to announce the establishment of the Paul C. Genho Endowed Chair in Ranch Management.
This new endowed faculty position honors the impact and leadership of Paul C. Genho, who was an integral part in creating KRIRM and continues to support and promote the program today. This position was recently filled by the addition of Rick Machen, Ph.D., of Uvalde, Texas, who will begin his appointment with KRIRM this June.
The professor and endowed chair position was created to work alongside the current KRIRM faculty and staff with the mission of the program. In this position, Machen will advise KRIRM graduate students, expand the national network of landowners and managers with whom KRIRM collaborates, and enhance KRIRM outreach to the ranching industry. In addition, Machen will teach courses in the ranch management program, and be a vital role in the recruitment and placement of graduate students.
“Dr. Machen has more than 25 years’ experience solving problems for ranchers across Texas and the Southwest as a livestock specialist for Texas AgriLife Extension,” said Clay Mathis, Ph.D., director of KRIRM. “He combines this experience with great communication skills, the highest level of honesty and integrity, and a passion for developing others in our industry. Dr. Machen has been a great friend of KRIRM for years, and is a perfect addition to our team.”
The institute experienced considerable growth within the last few years with the establishment of its Excellence in Ag Leadership program, as well as the broadening of service work to the industry through projects with partnering ranches. With every intent to continue increasing the impact of KRIRM, the addition of another faculty member will enable KRIRM to do more for its students and the ranching industry it serves….
Read the full story and download the Spring 2016 Newsletter here.