Dean Brian Horgan, Ph.D.
Brian Horgan was named dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, effective July 2, 2025. Horgan brings extensive leadership experience from Michigan State University (MSU), where he most recently served as professor and associate dean for faculty affairs and development in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Previously, he served as chair of the Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences at MSU, as well as in several leadership roles in the Department of Horticultural Science at the University of Minnesota, including interim head and extension program leader.
At MSU, Horgan led the development of new majors and minors — the first curriculum update in 30 years — working closely with faculty and students to ensure relevance and impact. He also prioritized building community and promoting diversity of thought, including establishing a highly engaged Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee. During his tenure at the University of Minnesota, he led the Science of the Green Initiative, which raised funds for infrastructure and endowed graduate fellowships.
Horgan earned his bachelor's degree in crop and soil science from Michigan State University, a master's degree in crop science from North Carolina State University, and a doctorate degree in natural resources and environmental sciences from the University of Illinois.
Jim Prince, Ph.D.
Senior Associate Dean, Research and Graduate Programs
Jim Prince leads the college’s research coordination, funding strategy and grant support, helping expand innovation and impact.
He previously served as biological sciences faculty and vice provost for academic affairs at California State University, Sacramento and held leadership roles at California State University, Chico and California State University, Fresno. With more than 30 years of agricultural research experience at Cornell University and with USDA-ARS, he brings deep expertise to advancing discovery.
He earned his bachelor’s in botany from University of California, Davis and a doctorate in botany and plant molecular biology from Cornell.
Ann De Lay, Ph.D.
Associate Dean, Student Success and Inclusive Excellence
Ann De Lay joined the Agricultural Education and Communication Department in 2008, teaching and mentoring future educators while guiding teacher candidates through clinical practice.
She has also served as a college faculty fellow, advancing initiatives in diversity, equity and inclusion, assessment, and the transition from quarters to semesters.
Ann earned a bachelor’s in agricultural education from California State University, Fresno, a master’s in agriculture from Cal Poly and a doctorate in agricultural education from University of Florida.
Russ Kabaker
Assistant Dean, Advancement and External Relations
Russ Kabaker drives the college’s development, alumni engagement and industry partnerships, building momentum that advances our mission and programs.
A Cal Poly alumnus in plant sciences and statistics, he launched his career at Grimmway Farms and went on to 15 years of executive leadership at Bayer CropScience Vegetable Seeds, leading global sales, marketing and product development.
His deep roots in agriculture and passion for student success fuel his work championing Learn by Doing.
Haley Marconett
Assistant Dean, Strategic Initiatives, Communications and Student Leadership
Haley Marconett drives strategic planning, communications, stakeholder engagement and student leadership initiatives for the college, working closely with the dean to launch new programs and advance key priorities.
Before joining Cal Poly in 2013, she spent nearly 30 years advising executives and leading strategy for major brands including Target, General Mills, Cargill, Calphalon and SUPERVALU.
Haley has degrees in English and economics from Hamline University.
Dean’s Advisory Council
The group of alumni and industry leaders dedicated to our educational mission.