The University of Idaho has appointed Randy Brooks as the new director of UI Extension and associate dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. Brooks, a veteran of the university’s outreach programs for more than 35 years, assumes the role on September 28.
He succeeds Barbara Petty, who retired on August 31 after nearly three decades of service to the institution. The transition marks a shift in leadership for one of the state’s primary channels for agricultural and community education.
Focus on Impact and Efficiency
Brooks outlined several priorities for his tenure, emphasizing the need to clearly document the value Extension services provide to Idaho communities. He noted that demonstrating this impact is critical amid ongoing budget uncertainty facing higher education institutions.
He also plans to launch an initiative called “Removing the Rocks,” designed to identify and eliminate obstacles that prevent employees from achieving their professional goals. Brooks intends to visit Extension offices and facilities across the state early in his appointment to assess operations firsthand.
“The county extension offices are the front porch of U of I,” Brooks said, highlighting the direct connection between university research and local residents.
Decades of Service
Brooks’ career with UI Extension began in 1991 as a soil fertility specialist based in Twin Falls. He later worked on a multi-county water quality demonstration project starting in 1993, operating out of the Cassia County Extension office in Burley. In 1996, he moved to an area extension forestry position at the Clearwater County Extension office in Orofino.
His background includes significant contributions to youth education and resource management. Brooks played a key role in expanding participation in UI’s Natural Resources Camp, held near Ketchum each June. Attendance at the camp has grown substantially under his influence, rising from 30 participants in 2011 to 96 attendees this year.
The university recognized his dedication with a University Excellence Award for advising in 2021. Additionally, an Extension forestry team including Brooks received a national award in 2024 for its work on the Idaho Forest Stewardship Program.
Academic Background
Brooks holds a bachelor’s degree in forest management from Oklahoma State University. He earned both his master’s and doctoral degrees in forest science from Michigan Technological University.
Reflecting on his long career in public service, Brooks emphasized the tangible results of Extension work. “If I’m helping them, they’re changing lives,” he said.