Milan Shipka named acting director for SNRE

February 18, 2019

University Relations

Milan Shipka has been named acting director of the School of Natural Resources and Extension.

Shipka earned a doctorate in biology with an emphasis on animal physiology in 1996 from Utah State University and has been with UAF since 1999. He became the research director for SNRE and director for the Agricultural and Forestry Experimental Station in 2015. A professor of animal science, Shipka has maintained teaching and research activity in animal science and sustainable agriculture, and works with livestock producers throughout the state.

“Milan Shipka brings a deep understanding of UAF's land-grant mission, a vast experience of managing capacity building grants and contracts, and a strong and inclusive leadership style. I look forward to working with him to reinvigorate the programs and activities supported by SNRE,” said Anupma Prakash, UAF's provost and executive vice chancellor.

Shipka takes on the leadership of SNRE from Fred Schlutt, who plans to move to Texas, his home state. Schlutt served as the Cooperative Extension Service director and vice provost for extension and outreach since May 2009.

SNRE is currently composed of the Cooperative Extension Service, Agricultural and Forestry Experimental Station, and the school's academic degree programs. On July 1, the academic programs, including the natural resources and environment degrees, will move into the College of Natural Science and Mathematics, and Shipka will then serve as the acting director for the combined AFES and CES units.