CORVALLIS, Ore. — Kristopher Elliott, who has served as Oregon State University’s interim vice provost for the Division of Extension and Engagement and director of OSU Extension Service since spring 2024, has been named to the position on a permanent basis following a national search.
“It is truly an honor and a privilege to serve in this role, leading and supporting efforts across Oregon by employees, volunteers and community collaborators to create positive impact and a prosperous future.”
“The heart of OSU’s Extension and engagement work is people working together to help Oregon thrive,” Elliott said. “It is truly an honor and a privilege to serve in this role, leading and supporting efforts across Oregon by employees, volunteers and community collaborators to create positive impact and a prosperous future.”
Over the past year, Elliott has focused on aligning OSU Extension resources with state and county priorities, strengthening collaboration across OSU units, cultivating relationships with state legislators and county commissioners, and expanding public engagement and participation in Extension programs.
His approach emphasizes partnership-driven solutions that respond to community-identified needs across Oregon’s rural, urban and Tribal communities.
Building programs and expanding access
Elliott joined OSU in 2017 as the inaugural director of the OSU Extension Service statewide Outdoor School program. Under his leadership, the program grew to serve more than 45,000 students across 197 school districts, supported by a biennial budget exceeding $46 million.
His advocacy helped secure full state funding for Outdoor School, and his commitment to access ensured that all eligible students could participate.
In 2022, Elliott became associate vice provost for Extension and associate director of OSU Extension Service, overseeing operations in 36 counties with 649 staff members. In that role, he launched new training programs, advanced strategic planning and worked to expand access to Extension services statewide.
He began serving as acting vice provost for Extension and engagement and director of OSU Extension Service in January 2024 before being appointed interim later that spring.
Roots in Extension and youth development
Elliott earned his doctorate in science education from Oregon State University and bachelor’s and master’s degrees from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.
He often credits his early leadership development to his experiences as a 4-H and FFA member, where he participated in public speaking, leadership and livestock projects — experiences that shaped his commitment to education, service and community engagement.
