By Blake Jackson
Chris Houser has been appointed as the associate director for programs at Penn State Extension, effective February 1. He has been serving in this role on an interim basis since June 2024.
In his new position, Houser will oversee the development and implementation of educational programs across multiple disciplines. His leadership will focus on ensuring that programs remain relevant, impactful, and accessible to a wide audience. He will also coordinate efforts among assistant directors and statewide program teams across five key areas: agronomy and natural resources, animal systems, food and communities, horticulture, and 4-H youth development.
“Throughout his time in Penn State Extension, Chris Houser has proven to work effectively with staff, faculty, administrators and our external partners,” said Jeffrey Hyde, director of Penn State Extension and associate dean in the College of Agricultural Sciences. “He embodies the traits described in Lencioni’s ‘The Ideal Team Player,’ and we are delighted that his knowledge and expertise will continue to help drive our progress in addressing the issues facing Pennsylvania’s farms, businesses and communities.”
Houser began his career at Penn State in 2005 as a research technologist, later becoming a field-crop extension educator in 2013. In this role, he developed educational programs and conducted on-farm research to support agricultural advancements. One of his notable achievements includes contributing to the development of the Penn State Interseeder, a machine designed to plant cover crops while applying herbicide and fertilizer in a single pass. This technology, now widely used, helps farmers improve soil health, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability.
In 2015, he was appointed interim assistant director for agronomy and natural resources programs, a role he officially assumed in 2017 and held until 2025. With extensive experience in both research and practical farming, Houser aims to strengthen Extension’s role in connecting scientific research with real-world applications.
“My vision for Penn State Extension is to ensure that we remain an agile, innovative and impactful organization focused on addressing the changing needs of our communities,” said Houser. “Extension is not just an educational platform — it’s a vital public service that connects research, practical expertise and community engagement to solve real-world challenges. I envision Extension leading the way in providing cutting-edge, science-based solutions to help agricultural producers, families and businesses thrive in an ever-changing world.”
Houser previously managed his family farm for nearly two decades. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Lock Haven University and a master’s in agronomy from Penn State.
Penn State Extension continues its mission of delivering research-based knowledge to support agriculture, businesses, and communities across Pennsylvania and beyond.
Photo Credit: penn-state-college-of-ag-sciences
Categories: Pennsylvania, Education