CORVALLIS, Ore. — Kristopher Elliott, who has served as Oregon State University’s interim vice provost for the Division of Extension and Engagement and director for OSU Extension Service since the spring of 2024, has been named to the position on a permanent basis following a national search.
“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. I’m excited about the opportunities ahead.”
Over the last year, Elliott has worked to align OSU Extension resources with state and county priorities, strengthen collaboration of leaders and units across OSU in addressing those priorities, cultivate relationships with state legislators and county commissioners, and enhance public engagement and enrollment in OSU’s Extension programs.
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 over 45,000 students across 197 districts, with a biennial budget of over $46 million. His advocacy helped secure full state funding for the effort, and his commitment to access for all eligible students shaped a successful, thriving initiative.
Elliott became associate vice provost for Extension and associate director of OSU Extension Service in 2022, overseeing operations serving 36 counties with 649 staff members. He launched innovative training programs, drove strategic planning and worked to expand access to Extension services.
His leadership continued as acting vice provost for Extension and engagement and director of OSU Extension Service in January 2024 before being appointed as interim.
Elliott earned his doctorate in science education from OSU and bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo. Elliott speaks often about how his leadership development began as an active 4-H and FFA member, where he was involved in public speaking, leadership and livestock projects.
